Northern lights visibility depends on location, dark skies, and solar activity. Generally, the best viewing window is during the winter months when nights are longest and skies are clearest, with peak activity often around the equinox periods. In practice:

• Best seasons: October through March in the Northern Hemisphere, with particularly good chances in the heart of winter and around the autumn/spring equinoxes when auroral activity tends to rise.
• Ideal conditions: A location within or near the Arctic Circle away from light pollution, clear, moonless nights, and strong solar activity. Clear skies are as important as darkness.
• Typical viewing times: Between late evening and the early hours of the morning, commonly around 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., though strong displays can occur earlier or later depending on conditions.
• What to watch for: Months with longer, darker nights (deep winter) usually provide more opportunities, but high auroral activity can happen in late autumn or early spring as well.
• Practical tips: Check local aurora forecasts and cloud-cover predictions, pick a rural overlook or dark-sky site, give yourself multiple nights, dress warmly, and be prepared to wait.

If you’d like, share your location or a destination you’re considering, and the dates you have in mind, and the guidance can be tailored to maximize your chances.