Aurora in Longyearbyen

Tonight's odds in Longyearbyen are low: solar activity is forecast strong enough (Kp 2.3) for the aurora to reach Longyearbyen, and the sky outlook is overcast.

Right now, the planet-wide aurora activity is Kp 3 (latest NOAA observed reading). What's Kp?

Best time to see the aurora in Longyearbyen

The best months in Longyearbyen are November, December, January, February — long, dark nights plus the equinox activity boost, when the odds are genuinely worth booking around. Tonight is one data point; the next 7 nights below show how the window is trending. Plan ahead and book a tour for your dates.

Aurora forecast for Longyearbyen — the next 3 nights

A ✓ means the forecast Kp clears Longyearbyen's Kp 0 visibility threshold — but clear skies still decide the night.

Cloud outlook & dark hours

Cloud cover is the dealbreaker: a strong aurora under an overcast sky is a no-show. Tonight's dark-hours window in Longyearbyen looks overcast (about 100% cloud on average). The aurora is best viewed away from town lights with a clear view toward the north.

Step just outside town toward Adventdalen valley; in deep polar night the whole day is dark. Guided trips carry rifles for polar-bear safety — don't wander far alone.

Northern lights tours & stays in Longyearbyen

Aurora tours from Longyearbyen typically run $120–$450 per person. A guided "chase" that drives to the clearest sky is often worth it when the local forecast is cloudy.