We’ve been fortunate to witness several auroras over the years – and each one holds its own sense of awe. No two displays are quite the same. Some are bold and sweeping, others subtle and fleeting. Over the years, through observation and personal research, we’ve developed a better understanding of this remarkable natural phenomenon. And while there’s still so much that science continues to uncover, our own experiences have shown us that being present in the moment is just as valuable as knowing the forecasts.

One of the questions we’re asked most often is about photographing the aurora – and which of our tours offers the best chance. The answer isn’t always straightforward. Unlike fixed landmarks or seasonal wildlife, auroras follow no timetable. But with the right knowledge and a little preparation, you can certainly improve your chances. So, rather than promise a specific moment, we’d like to share what we’ve learned – insights that can help you make the most of any opportunity to chase and photograph the Southern Lights here in Tasmania.

I’m not a scientist – and I don’t claim to be. I’m a nature and wildlife photographer with a deep respect for the natural world and a passion for understanding it better. Over the years, I’ve spent a great deal of time reading, researching and learning from experts, all while observing the world through both my lens and lived experience. What I share here is drawn from that journey – insights gathered not just from books and forecasts, but from time spent in the field. My aim isn’t to explain every detail of the science, but to offer what I’ve learnt in a way that helps you connect more deeply with nature, especially when chasing the elusive Southern Lights.

So, what exactly is an aurora?

Put simply, it’s a natural light display caused by solar activity – one of nature’s most captivating phenomena. In the southern hemisphere, we call it the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights; in the north, it’s known as the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.

Wherever it appears, the aurora is a complex and unpredictable event. It relies on just the right combination of solar conditions and atmospheric responses – something that can’t be scheduled or guaranteed. It’s this unique alignment that makes witnessing an aurora so memorable. And while science helps us understand the patterns, there’s still something quietly remarkable about how it all comes together.

What is the solar cycle?

The solar cycle is a natural rhythm that unfolds over roughly 11 years, during which the sun moves between periods of lower and higher magnetic activity. I once read a simple phrase on the NASA website that stuck with me – “the sun transitions from being calm to an active and stormy state.” From what I understand, this relates mostly to sunspot activity, though there’s undoubtedly more to it than that. So let’s just say that’s my take, not an official definition.

Each cycle begins and ends with what’s known as the solar minimum – a quieter phase when sunspots are fewer. Midway through the cycle is the solar maximum, when sunspot activity peaks. And generally speaking, more sunspots can mean a greater chance of auroras, as these are tied to increased solar events like flares and coronal mass ejections.

That said, auroras aren’t exclusive to the solar maximum. They can appear during solar minimum too – they’re just less frequent and often less intense. So while we can look to the solar cycle for guidance, it’s still nature’s call in the end.

Solar cycle 25 and its peak in 2024-2025

Back in 2013, we were lucky to witness several auroras – some unforgettable, others that quietly passed us by. At the time, we figured that since the typical solar cycle lasts about 11 years, we’d probably see more activity around 2024. It was a simple calculation – but of course, nature doesn’t always follow our logic. Besides, where would the mystery lie if it were all that straightforward?

Still, as the years from 2013 progressed, it was always quite satisfying to watch as our rough estimate was being reflected in the expert forecasts – and even more so, confirmed by the incredible auroral activity we’ve seen throughout 2024 and into 2025.

Solar Cycle 25 officially began in December 2019. From there, solar activity gradually increased, leading to the solar maximum – the peak of the cycle. In May 2024, the skies lit up with a remarkable display, the result of a powerful solar storm that captured attention across the globe. A few months later, in October, it was confirmed: Solar Cycle 25 had reached its maximum phase, one that perhaps would to continue for a year on, well into 2025.

Aurora australis - southern Tasmania - 2013

A little of the science

Solar science is complex – it's about so much more than I can explain. But what I can share is what I've learned through my own research and observation; and offer a simple understanding of this fascinating field.

Geomagnetic storms, also known as solar storms, are linked to solar flares, sunspots and other solar activity. These storms occur when solar wind conditions fluctuate and they're rated from G1 to G5, with G1 being the mildest and G5 the most intense.

One way we measure the likelihood of seeing an aurora is through the Kp index. This scale, which ranges from 0 to 9, helps predict the intensity of geomagnetic activity. A Kp value of 5 or higher signals a geomagnetic storm – Kp5, for instance, corresponds to a G1 storm.

Chasing the Southern Lights in Tasmania

• For the best chance of spotting the Southern Lights, find a location with an uninterrupted view of the southern horizon. We’ve included a link at the end of this post to a helpful map of aurora viewing spots across the southern hemisphere, including Tasmania.

• Avoid areas with light pollution – both natural (like moonlight) and artificial (such as streetlights). The clearer the sky, the better your chances.

• Keep an eye on aurora predictions and forecasts. While the Kp index is a good starting point, there’s so much more to consider.

Tasmania stretches between latitudes 40-44 degrees south, with Hobart, Australia’s southernmost capital, at 42 degrees. For the best chance of seeing an aurora with the naked eye, a Kp value of 5 or higher is recommended at Tasmania’s latitude. The further south you go and the less light intrusion there is, the better your odds.

When is the best time to see the Southern Lights?

While it’s possible to see an aurora at any time of the year, the best time to catch the Southern Lights is during the winter months, from May to around September. This is when the nights are longer, offering more hours of darkness – something we definitely need, especially given the extended daylight hours during summer and daylight savings. For optimal viewing, aim for the darkest hours of the night. So, if you’re chasing the aurora, be prepared to embrace your inner night owl!

Photographing an Aurora

Did you know that a camera can capture more than the human eye can see? When we talk about aurora sightings, we often refer to what we see with the “naked eye.”

The way a camera works is quite different to the human eye. While our eyes continuously adapt to light and adjust to a scene, a camera can collect light over a longer period (using long exposure), capturing details that our eyes might miss in real time. This ability is especially useful when photographing auroras!

Because of this, it’s possible to capture an aurora even if the Kp-index is at a low level. The camera’s long exposure can reveal subtle auroral activity that the human eye might not notice at first glance.

Is it possible to predict something that’s not predictable?

As mentioned earlier, I’m not a scientist – but over the years, I’ve learnt to read some of the signs, interpret some of the data available and stay up to date with forecasts from trusted sources. When we know you’re hoping to witness or photograph an aurora, we’ll do everything we can to support that goal – whether it’s timing, location or real-time updates.

Still, auroras remain one of nature’s most unpredictable wonders. Forecasts can shift quickly and are often only available anywhere from three days to just thirty minutes (or less) ahead of time. So while we keep a close eye on the conditions, there’s always an element of uncertainty. And honestly, perhaps that’s part of what makes seeing one so special.

Embrace every photographic opportunity

It would genuinly delight me to help others experience the wonder of Lady Aurora’s mystical lights dancing across the night sky – and to guide you in capturing the magic through your lens.

While an aurora is never guaranteed, our overnight and multi-day photography experiences are designed to embrace the possibility of photographing one. And equally, they’re filled with countless other opportunities that are just as rewarding.

If you’ve read this far, you’ll know by now that auroras are elusive and difficult to predict.

This is why we offer custom-tailored tours designed with your photographic intentions as our top priority. Whether it’s the thrill of chasing auroras, capturing Tasmania’s wild beauty or refining your creative technique, we’ll shape the experience around what matters most to you.

Let’s plan a photography experience that’s meaningful, memorable and built around your interests – guided by nature and shaped by what matters most to you.

My first ever Aurora experience… 3rd September 1997

I was visiting friends in the Jämtland district of central Sweden. Late one evening as we returned from a big day of exploring, there was a shimmering green glow dancing across the sky. This was the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). WOW – my very first Aurora! I spent 45 minutes totally mesmerised by nature’s performance in the night sky, at least until the clouds rolled in bringing an end to the show. What an experience! At the time I remember not being able to truly describe what I’d seen. There was very little access to the internet back then, not to mention that my camera was a relatively basic film camera. I may not have a physical photo, but my memories of this experience are vivid – I see myself standing in situ, looking directly upwards into the dark sky with admiration of our natural world.

Discover more with these helpful resources

Bureau of Meteorology Space Weather Services – The Aurora

Video on Bureau of Meteorology Facebook Page: AskBOM - What is an aurora?

Video on Bureau of Meteorology Facebook Page: Space Weather storms

Aurora Australis Tasmania Facebook public group

Book: The Aurora Chaser's Handbook