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Northern Lights Forecast Alta

69.9689°N, 23.2710°E – Alta

Moderate
3.7
Some aurora activity possible in northern Norway
Updated: Jan 17, 2026 8:40 PM

Planning to see the Northern Lights in Alta? You’re in the right place. On this page, you’ll find the most accurate and up-to-date Northern Lights forecast for Alta, based on real-time data from NASA, NOAA, and geomagnetic activity sources.

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Current Northern Lights Forecast for Alta📍 69.9689°N, 23.2717°E
Aurora Chance
50%
Location-specific
Temperature
-15°C
Clouds
Feels like: -19°C
Cloud Cover
100%
Cloudy
Wind
2 m/s SSW
Current conditions
Solar Wind
685 km/s
Current speed

Why Alta Is One of the Best Places to See the Northern Lights

Alta lies well within the auroral oval, placing it in one of the most consistent regions on Earth for viewing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Its inland location provides dry, stable weather and clear winter skies, combined with very low light pollution and open Arctic landscapes, making Alta one of the most reliable destinations for aurora sightings.

Northern Lights dancing over snowy mountains in Norway during winter night

Alta KP Index Forecast

The Kp index indicates the likelihood of auroral activity. A higher KP number means stronger geomagnetic activity, which increases your chances of seeing the aurora.

3-Day Forecast - Alta Updated hourly
Saturday
Very Good
5.3
Aurora visible across Norway
Sunday
Good
4.7
Good conditions for aurora viewing in Norway
Monday
Moderate
3.7
Some aurora activity possible in northern Norway

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alta

The aurora season in Alta runs from late September to early April. For the best experience:

  • Visit between October and March
  • Check the KP index forecast regularly
  • Look for cloud-free nights
  • Avoid city lights – head just outside Tromsø for clearer views

Photography Tips

Camera Settings

• Use manual mode
• ISO: 1600-3200
• Aperture: f/2.8 or wider
• Shutter speed: 5-15 seconds
• Manual focus set to infinity

Essential gear

• Sturdy tripod
• Wide-angle lens
• Extra batteries (cold drains them quickly)
• Remote shutter or timer
• Hand warmers for gear and hands

Data delivered by Auroras.live 

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