Editor's Note: Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is now closed a half-hour after sunset and opens again a half-hour before sunrise.
It's true that living in Maine means a typical Northern climate, complete with some rough winters and beaches that feature chilly water even in the midst of a warm summer. But, it's not all bad! In fact, it's pretty great. We've got the chance to enjoy cozy fireplaces for a bit longer than most states and if you're a snow lover — well — you're in the best place in the country! While the list of things we love about Maine's northern location is long, one of the most beautiful benefits is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis. The Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Maine so let's check it out:
The Northern Lights — also known as the Aurora Borealis — appear when gas particles in the Earth's atmosphere collide with charged particles that come from the sun's atmosphere.
One of the things you probably know about the Northern Lights —
even if you've never seen them before — is the fact that so many colors can be seen throughout the sky. These colors are dictated by the type of gas particles that are colliding.
You might be surprised to learn that Aroostook County is a great place to see the northern lights in Maine.
It's just far north enough and free of light pollution to allow us to see this incredible light show.
Experts say that Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is the best place in the county if you want to see them.
While these mystifying lights are truly unpredictable, winter is the best season to view them, primarily December - February.
The refuse closes at sunset, but don't worry!
Most of this area is prime for viewing, so be sure to check the "forecast" and make sure you're in the right place.
Make sure you get in a nap early in the day, because the prime viewing time is between midnight and 3 a.m.
Can you believe that this night sky was seen in Maine?
There's more than one spot to see the Northern Lights in Maine, though! You can also see this natural light show at Caribou-Speckled Mountain Wilderness, which is managed by White Mountain National Forest and includes Caribou Mountain and Speckled Mountain. To see when and where the Northern Lights are most visible, check out the NOAA 30-minute forecast here.
And to see the Northern Lights in all their glory over Maine, check out this video:
Moosehead Lake Aurora with thanks to Mike Taylor - Taylor Photography on Vimeo.
Maine's night sky is beautiful year-round, and these backcountry camping spots in Maine are some of the best spots for pitching a tent and stargazing.
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