Revontulen

Revontulen refers to the Finnish phenomenon of auroras, commonly known as the Northern Lights, which are natural light displays predominantly seen in high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic. The term *revontulet* (plural) translates directly to "fox fires" in English, derived from an old Finnish belief that the lights were caused by the tails of foxes moving across the snow, creating sparks.

Auroras occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. These particles collide with gases like oxygen and nitrogen, emitting light in various colors—typically green, pink, or purple—depending on the type of gas and altitude. The most frequent and vivid displays are observed near the Arctic Circle, including parts of Finland, where clear, dark skies provide optimal viewing conditions.

Finnish culture has long associated revontulet with folklore and mythology. Indigenous Sámi people, for instance, believed the lights were the spirits of the dead or the aurora borealis was a bridge between the earthly and spiritual worlds. Modern Finns often view them as a symbol of the country’s natural beauty and a popular tourist attraction, particularly in Lapland, where dedicated aurora viewing centers and tours are available.

The best time to observe revontulet is during the winter months, from late September to early April, when nights are long and skies are clear. While they can occur at any time, they are most frequent during periods of high solar activity, such as solar maxima. Finland’s remote, dark landscapes and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places in the world to witness this natural spectacle.