Direct answer first: The northern lights are seen in the high-l latitude sky, best viewed from dark, clear places in or near the Arctic, and they appear as shimmering curtains or bands overhead, often toward the northern horizon, especially during the long dark hours of winter. The exact position in the sky changes with time and magnetic activity, but you should look toward the north (north-northeast to northwest depending on your location) and scan the entire sky for movement and color. Context and practical guidance

• When to see them: They’re most visible during the dark hours of fall through spring, with peak opportunities often in the heart of winter. The best viewing windows are typically when the sky is truly dark (away from city lights) and when solar activity is favorable.

• Where to look: In the northern hemisphere, look toward the northern part of the sky. In places inside the auroral oval (like northern Norway, Swedish Lapland, or northern Canada), the lights can appear overhead or low on the northern horizon and can sweep across the sky.

• How they appear: The aurora usually appears as greenish curtains or diffuse moving bands, occasionally with red, purple, or pink tinges, and the shapes change rapidly as particles collide with the atmosphere. The height is typically around 100 km above the ground, but the effective visibility can extend higher or lower depending on conditions.

• Light pollution and weather: Clear skies are essential, and even modest moonlight or light pollution can wash out faint displays. If the sky looks cloudy, a short drive to a darker location can help.

• Seasonal notes: In high-latitude regions, auroras are more reliably visible during the winter months when nights are long, though they can occur outside that season during sufficiently dark and clear conditions.

Tips for planning a viewing

• Choose a location well away from artificial lights; northern-based destinations offer the most frequent opportunities due to proximity to the auroral oval.

• Check local aurora forecasts and weather forecasts for clear skies, then head outside during the darkest part of the night, typically between late evening and early morning. The strongest displays often occur between 9 pm and 2 am.

• Dress warmly and be prepared to stay outside for a while; the best displays can appear intermittently but linger for minutes to hours under good conditions.

If you’d like, specify your location (city or region) and the date range you’re planning, and the answer can be tailored to give you exact viewing chances, best-practice viewing times, and local spots.