Learn the forms of the natural world’s most stunning light show
There has recently been an uplift in dramatic aurora displays, which ties in with increased activity in the Sun’s latest solar cycle. These beautiful photos, taken in Finland and Norway by Markus Varick in late 2021, are awash with aurora forms. Here, plasma scientist Dr Melanie Windridge explains the main forms to look out for in a display.
Capturing the aurora
Photographer Markus Varik explains how he shot his two images
“The idea for the main picture came about in the early hours of 12 October 2021, when a G2 (moderate) geomagnetic storm reached Earth. The evening weather forecast was promising, so we headed to Finland and drove for three hours. We found these astonishing clear skies on the coast and didn’t have to wait long – the aurora was pure magic.
“The inset image was taken above Tromsø, Norway, on 3 November. It had been raining for hours, and the next moment there were clear skies – we had the best aurora crown we’ve seen for years!”
Equipment: Canon 5D DSLR cameras, Sigma 20mm f/1.4 and 14mm f/1.8 lenses
Markus Varik is an aurora photographer and tour guide based in Tromsø, Norway. For more details see https://greenlander.no and www.instagram.com/greenlander_tromso