Will you see the northern lights in Fairbanks tonight?

It's the midnight-sun season in Fairbanks right now — the sky never gets dark enough to see the aurora. Come back in September.

Right now, the planet-wide aurora activity is Kp 2.3 (latest NOAA observed reading). What's Kp?

Best time to see the aurora in Fairbanks

The aurora is a planning trip, not a same-day dash. The best months in Fairbanks are September, March, October, February — long, dark nights plus the equinox activity boost, when the odds are genuinely worth booking around. Right now it's the midnight-sun season here, so there's no dark-sky window — plan ahead for late august to mid-april.

Aurora forecast for Fairbanks — the nights ahead

Fairbanks has no dark-hours window in the next few days — it's the midnight-sun season here. The aurora season runs late august to mid-april. See the best months to visit →

Cloud outlook & dark hours

Cloud cover is the dealbreaker: a strong aurora under an overcast sky is a no-show. In season, Fairbanks's viewing window opens after dark; right now there isn't one. The aurora is best viewed away from town lights with a clear view toward the north.

Drive out of the city to Cleary Summit, Murphy Dome, or the Chena Hot Springs road — soak in the hot springs while you wait. The interior's dry air means clear nights are common.

Northern lights tours & stays in Fairbanks

Aurora tours from Fairbanks typically run $75–$300 per person. A guided "chase" that drives to the clearest sky is often worth it when the local forecast is cloudy.