Meet Star Gazers

Northern Lights with Ian Ridpath

Episode Summary

In this episode, I have the privilege of interviewing Ian Ridpath on the topic of Northern Lights. He shares with us his knowledge on the causes of Northern Lights, the best time and months to see them, the best places to see them and the process of photographing Northern Lights.

Episode Notes

Ian Ridpath has been a full-time writer, editor, broadcaster, and lecturer on astronomy and space since 1972. He lectures regularly on Northern Lights expedition cruises to Norway. In this episode, Ian shares with us his knowledge on the causes of Northern Lights, the best time and months to see them, the best places to see them and the process of photographing Northern Lights.

Time Stamps :

• 03:42 : Why are Northern Lights called Aurora Borealis ?
• 04:48 : What do Northern Lights look like ? Can Northern Lights be seen with the naked eye ?
• 06:44 : Can I see the stars and the Milky Way along with the Northern Lights ?
• 07:34 : Does the presence of the Moon influence observation of Northern Lights ?
• 08:45 : Why are northern lights green ?
• 11:13 : What causes the Northern Lights ?
• 15:12 : Are the Northern Lights dangerous ?
• 16:20 : When are Northern Lights visible ? Do the Northern Lights happen every night ?
• 18:50 : Which month is best to see the Northern Lights ?
• 20:24 : Where are the best places to see the northern lights ?
• 21:36 : How far south can I see the Northern Lights ?
• 23:25 : Can Northern Lights be predicted ? How does one forecast Northern Lights ?
• 25:23 : What is the Kp index with respect to Northern Lights ?
• 26:31 : Are the Southern Lights like Northern Lights ?
• 27:58 : Process of photographing the Northern Lights
• 30:50 : Can I take photographs of the Northern Lights with my smartphone ?

Useful Links and Resources :

• Ian Ridpath
• Space Weather

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