First Time in Tasmania? A Step-by-Step Guide to Chasing the Aurora Australis

The highlight of any trip to Tasmania is undoubtedly witnessing the Aurora Australis! If it's your first time in Tasmania, don't worry. This comprehensive guide will help you enjoy the spectacular southern lights at the edge of the world.

[Aurora Season]
✅ The aurora can be seen year-round in Tasmania, with a higher probability from April to September.
✅ About the Aurora: The southern lights seen in Tasmania are mostly pink and purple. Due to the proton aurora phenomenon, you can see pink and purple dancing lights with a KP index of 3.
✅ Viewing Conditions: KP index greater than 5, clear skies, and away from city lights.

[Chasing the Lights Guide]
☑️ Aurora Forecast: The IPS Australian Space Weather Services provides real-time data. A geomagnetic storm index of G1 is sufficient.
⏰ Best Time to Chase: Set out between 7 PM and 9 PM. The peak aurora activity is usually between 10 PM and 2 AM.
📲 Essential Apps: My Aurora Forecast and Aurora to check detailed aurora indices. Use both apps for cross-verification.
💻 Essential Websites: Check real-time weather on the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and Windy for weather and cloud maps.
💡 PS: Join Facebook groups like Aurora Australis Tasmania for timely aurora sighting information.

[Aurora Viewing Spots]
Rosny Hill: Feel the aurora up close.
Taroona Beach: The closest beach to Hobart for aurora chasing.
Cradle Mountain: Perfect view with the aurora reflecting on the lake.
Mount Wellington: Unobstructed view of the aurora.
Bruny Island: Popular spots include the lighthouse and The Neck.
Maria Island: Zero light pollution, a truly pristine island.

[Aurora Itinerary Recommendations]
D1: Hobart → Richmond Village → Salamanca Place → Mount Wellington
D2: Port Arthur → Tasman Peninsula → Blowhole → Tasman Arch → Devil's Kitchen
D3: Wineglass Bay Day Trip / Maria Island Day Trip
D4: Bruny Island → The Neck → Oyster Farm → Adventure Bay → Return

[Aurora Photography Tips]
📷 Camera: Manual mode, ISO 800+, shutter speed 10-20 seconds, manual focus to infinity.
📱 Phone: Night mode + long exposure.