Capturing Nature’s Most Beautiful Light Shows: Auroras and Eclipses

Auroras and eclipses are nature’s most spectacular light shows and bucket-list experiences for many, but how do you maximize your odds of actually seeing them when it counts? In this presentation, Vincent Ledvina, professional aurora chaser and space physics Ph.D. student, will break down the science behind auroras and the practical tools used to forecast them.

You’ll learn the physics of the aurora, the role of elusive auroral substorms, and the real-world workflows chasers use at both high latitudes under the auroral oval and at mid-latitudes when space weather boosts geomagnetic activity. Vincent will also help you plan an aurora or eclipse trip, including how to choose locations and timing, read forecasts, and make smart go/no-go decisions so you’re in the right place with the best chances.

Witnessing these spectacles is already an impressive feat, but for those who want to capture the show, Vincent will explain everything you need to create beautiful images of auroras and eclipses. This presentation is perfect for any night-sky enthusiast, whether you’re trying to catch your first aurora or solar eclipse or you think you’ve seen it all, there is always something to learn.

Speaker: Vincent Ledvina, University of Alaska Fairbanks