Astronomer to lead tours to see the Northern Lights in Norway

ASTRONOMER John Mason is happy to share his love of this northern phenomenon, writes Chanel Parratt.

Still in awe of the Northern Lights

ASTRONOMER Dr John Mason has been leading expeditions to observe and record the natural phenomena the Northern Lights for more than 30 years.

Based in West Sussex in southern England, the university lecturer and documentary producer says this year's lights are set to be the best in a decade.

What is it about the lights that sparked your professional interest?

JM: I think that it is the inherent unpredictability and variability of the aurora together with the expectation that one might just be lucky enough to witness a truly spectacular display.

Why are astronomers predicting this year's lights to be the best in a decade?

JM: This year, the sun is expected to be at its highest level of activity since 2003. It's likely that this increased level of activity will produce some great auroral displays. There are other factors that contribute but I could talk for hours about that (laughs).

Tell me about some of the Northern Lights legends.

JM: One of the earliest accounts of an auroral display date back 2600 years in the Book of Ezekiel in the Old Testament. Ancient people were awed by the aurora, just as we are today. The Vikings believed the aurora was the beautiful maidens called Valkyries, who escorted those killed in battle to the gods in Valhalla. The Inuit of Alaska believed the lights were the spirits of the animals they hunted.

Where's the best place to view the Northern Lights?

JM: Along the coast of Norway. Apart from the chance of seeing the Northern Lights, the coastal scenery is fabulous and ever-changing. Norwegian coastal weather is unpredictable.

I have seen a fierce snowstorm up on deck give way to a beautifully clear, star-studded sky with the Northern Lights visible all in the space of just 20 minutes.

Can you describe what it's like to see them?

JM: The first view of the aurora is nothing more than a faint arc of light. As the aurora brightens the first hints of colour (emerge) - usually pale green. If the display becomes more active, bright spots along the arc and rays may be seen shooting upwards into the sky. If the arc ripples and distorts, or if multiple arcs appear, there's the expectation of a fine show. In the grandest outbursts, the aurora may become all-sky - a breathtaking, rapidly moving kaleidoscope of colour. No matter how wonderful an aurora one has seen, one always hopes for something better the next time.

What can't an expert astronomer travel without?

JM: My wife (laughs) and a laptop loaded up with all of the specialised programs that I use and a good digital camera.

What has travel taught you?

JM: That a smile is a universal sign of friendship and that people all over the world are fascinated by science, particularly astronomy.

Dr John Mason will lead the Bentours Northern Lights Astronomy Voyages in Norway this coming European autumn and winter. See bentours.com.au