Cockpit Chronicles: A farewell to Boston

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6-18-2011 @ 9:02AM

Nick said...

The Northern Lights shot is superb! Having flown several times on very long-haul flights from the Middle-east to the US that take a very northernly route, I've often been frustrated by the (very strict) flight attendant instructions to keep the window shades down at all times. I mean I understand open shades might mess with the cabin's ambient darkness and folks trying to catch some sleep, but for a space enthusiast like myself who has always wanted to see the Lights, just imagine all those lost opportunities :( I envy you pilots that way...

Can you tell me which routes and times of the year have been the best in terms of viewing opportunities, from your experience? Thanks - Nick

6-18-2011 @ 9:14AM

Kent Wien said...

So even at night the flight attendants want the shades down, Nick? Wow. Hopefully the new window shades on the 787 will fix that.

Go to Spaceweather before your flight and see if they mention any high levels of solar activity. Those are your best opportunities to see the Northern Lights. If it's not reported as significant, you probably won't see anything. Out of, say, 100 night flights over the Atlantic, we'll probably only see them two times.

I talked a little about that night view in a recent post that includes a few other things you can look for though.

Good luck!

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