Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis over the Lofoten Islands by Sjoerd van der Wal Photography

About "Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis over the Lofoten Islands"

by Sjoerd van der Wal Photography

About the artwork

Northern Lights, polar light or Aurora Borealis in the night sky over the Lofoten islands in Northern Norway. Wide panoramic image with snow covered mountains and a lake in the foreground.

Set against a backdrop of jagged mountains and an icy fjord, the aurora transforms the Arctic night into a surreal, otherworldly spectacle. Swirling ribbons of green light dance across the sky, caused by charged solar particles colliding with gases in Earth’s atmosphere.
In the Lofoten Islands, located above the Arctic Circle, long winter nights and minimal light pollution provide ideal viewing conditions. From September to April, clear skies often reveal this celestial performance, reflected on the still waters below and illuminating the snow-covered peaks. The contrast between the dark silhouettes of the mountains and the vibrant colors of the aurora creates an unforgettable visual experience.
Local legends once attributed the lights to spirits or celestial battles, adding mystique to their beauty. Today, visitors from around the world come to witness this phenomenon, often combining it with Arctic activities like dog sledding, photography, or cozy nights in rorbu cabins. The Northern Lights over Lofoten are more than a sight—they’re an emotional and awe-inspiring reminder of nature’s grandeur and the magic of the far north.