Aurora Australis
Tucked away in the serene Huon Valley, Huon Bush Retreats offers some of the best spots on Earth to witness the breathtaking Aurora Australis. Imagine stepping out into the cool Tasmanian night, surrounded by nature, and watching the sky light up with a dance of celestial lights. It's a magical experience you'll never forget.
The Science
The Aurora Australis is a stunning light display caused by solar wind particles colliding with Earth's magnetic field. When the sun releases a burst of solar wind and magnetic fields, known as a coronal mass ejection, these particles travel towards Earth. As they interact with our planet's magnetic field, they produce dazzling lights in the sky. The colors you see—greens, reds, blues—are due to different atoms in the atmosphere. Tasmania, being close to the South Pole where the Earth's magnetic field is closest to its surface, is an ideal spot to witness this incredible light show.
What You Can Expect
At Huon Bush Retreats, seeing the Aurora Australis is an unforgettable experience. While photos online show vibrant colors, the naked eye often perceives white flashes or flickers that can be mistaken for clouds. However, with a camera and a long exposure, the true colors—vivid greens, blues, and occasionally reds—come to life. The lights dance and move across the sky, creating a magical spectacle.
Best Spots to See the Lights Around the Huon Valley
While you can spot the Aurora Australis from any clear, southern-facing view in Tasmania, here are some of the best spots:
- Mount Misery Walk at Huon Bush Retreats: Right on our property, the Mount Misery Walk offers perfect spots for aurora watching. Enjoy the convenience of stargazing just a short hike from your cabin!
- Bruny Island: Offers expansive views with minimal light pollution.
- Cockle Creek: The southernmost tip of Tasmania, providing an unobstructed view of the southern horizon.
- Mount Wellington: Accessible from Hobart, it offers a broad horizon and is a favorite among locals.
- South Arm Peninsula: Known for its reflection shots and wide bay.
- Dodges Ferry, Rosny Hill, Howden, Seven Mile, and Tinderbox: These locations are also popular for their clear views and lack of light pollution.
When Are They Best Seen
You have a chance to see the Aurora Australis any time of year, though winter, with its longer nights, provides a greater window of opportunity. Some say the equinox in September is the best time, but the phenomenon is ultimately unpredictable. For the latest updates, check out the popular Facebook page "The Aurora Australis" or use apps like Star Walk, Solar Monitor, and Aurora Australis Forecast.
Capturing the Aurora
To capture the Aurora Australis, use an SLR camera set to manual mode with a tripod. A wide lens allows maximum light into the camera. Set the ISO between 800 to 3200, shutter speed from 5 to 15 seconds, and focus to infinity for the best results.
At Huon Bush Retreats, we pride ourselves on our pristine, dark skies, perfect for witnessing and capturing the Aurora Australis. Our commitment to preserving the natural environment ensures you get the best experience possible.
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