Phillip Island is a favourite for tourists and locals alike, with its stunning coastline, unique wildlife and laid back vibe. Many come to see the Penguin Parade or the Phillip Island Nature Parks but the island also offers opportunities for stargazing and night photography. Among the many celestial wonders the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights is the showstopper for travellers looking for a light display. Whether you’re on one of the many Phillip Island tours or self driving, you’ll find the island’s beauty goes well beyond daylight hours. But how likely are you to see the aurora from Phillip Island? Let’s get into this aurora destination and find out.
What is the Aurora Australis?
The Aurora Australis or Southern Lights is a spectacular light display in the southern hemisphere. Like its northern hemisphere counterpart the Aurora Borealis it occurs when solar particles from the Sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. These particles interact with gases like oxygen and nitrogen and create beautiful curtains of light that ripple across the sky in greens, purples and pinks. The aurora is most often seen in areas of high geomagnetic activity, particularly during solar storms and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
Although the Southern Lights are associated with places closer to the South Pole like Bruny Island or South Cape Bay in Tasmania they have been seen from southern parts of the Australian mainland including Phillip Island. On rare nights this natural phenomenon turns the island’s already beautiful views into something truly special.
Can You See the Aurora from Phillip Island?
Yes you can see the Aurora Australis from Phillip Island but sightings are rare and dependent on the conditions. The island’s southern latitude and low light pollution makes it a good spot to view, especially on clear dark nights during periods of high aurora activity. But Phillip Island is not as far south as prime aurora chasing spots like Satellite Island or Stewart Island so the aurora here will appear faint or near the horizon.
When it happens – during a big geomagnetic storm – the aurora will be spectacular. Cape Woolamai, Woolamai Beach Lookouts and the Churchill Island Marine National Park are the best spots on Phillip Island to see it.
Factors Influencing Aurora Visibility on Phillip Island
1. Solar Activity
Aurora Australis is linked to solar activity. During a solar storm or geomagnetic storm your chances of seeing bright auroras increase. Check out Aurora Hunters Victoria Facebook and apps like Photo Pills for real time updates on aurora activity.
2. Weather
Even the brightest aurora can be hidden by a cloud or a persistent overcast night. Phillip Island’s coastal climate means the weather can change quickly so check the forecast. Look for clear skies and minimal air pollution for the best chance of seeing.
3. Light Pollution
While Phillip Island has less light pollution than urban areas, some popular tourist spots near Nobbies Centre or Cowes can still have bright lights from nearby city lights and attractions. To get a dark sky night seek out more remote areas like Cape Woolamai or Flinders Blowhole. These areas are far from artificial light and will give you the best chance of a clear view of the night sky.
4. Season and Time
The best time to see the aurora from Phillip Island is during the winter months (May to August) when the nights are longer, darker and clearer. The aurora is most active around midnight or early morning so late night outings are a must. New moon nights are also ideal as there’s no moonlight and the sky will be as dark as possible.
How to See the Aurora Australis
While seeing the Aurora Australis on Phillip Island is a bit of luck, there are ways to increase your chances.
1. Follow the Forecasts
Check real time aurora tracking. Aurora Hunters Victoria Facebook and apps like Photo Pills and Photo Rangers have accurate predictions and updates on geomagnetic activity. Use these to plan your trip around aurora activity.
2. Pick the Right Spot
Location is key. Cape Schanck Lighthouse, Cape Woolamai and the Woolamai Beach Lookouts have views of the southern horizon and are away from city lights. These are aurora viewing spots and are popular with aurora chasers for the unobstructed views.
3. Plan Around New Moon Nights
New moon means no moonlight to dim the night sky. Without the moon’s glow even faint auroras are more visible and you’ll have a better chance of getting the shots you want.
Other Night Sky Wonders on Phillip Island
Even if the aurora doesn’t show, Phillip Island’s southern coast has plenty of other astronomical events and natural wonders to discover.
The Milky Way
The Milky Way is the star of Phillip Island’s night photography. Spanning the sky with stars and cosmic dust, the Milky Way is a great subject for wide angle shots in manual mode.
Shooting Stars
During events like the Perseids or Geminids meteor showers, Phillip Island is the perfect spot to see shooting stars. These quick, bright flashes are great for getting some amazing shots.
Planets
Throughout the year, planets like Jupiter, Venus and Saturn are visible in the night sky. Their bright star-like appearance makes them easy to see without a telescope.
Bioluminescence
Phillip Island’s waters sometimes experience bioluminescence, where microorganisms emit light, creating a glow along the shoreline. This is most visible on calm nights, adding to the magic of your night photography.
Conclusion
Phillip Island is a stargazer’s and adventure-seeker’s paradise. While the Aurora Australis may not be guaranteed, the island’s dark skies and southern coast views make it an aurora-chasing night worth it. With some planning you can see many other celestial wonders and have a trip to remember and be in awe of.
FAQ
Can you see the Aurora Australis from Phillip Island often?
No, sightings of the Aurora Australis from Phillip Island are rare and depend on high geomagnetic activity and clear skies.
What time of year can you see the Aurora Australis on Phillip Island?
Winter months May to August are the best, as the nights are longer and darker.
Where are the best spots on Phillip Island to see the aurora?
Cape Woolamai, Woolamai Beach Lookouts and Churchill Island Marine National Park.
What do I need for aurora photography?
Wide angle lens, manual mode camera and sturdy tripod.
Can light pollution affect the aurora on Phillip Island?
Yes, light pollution from nearby city lights or popular tourist areas can reduce the visibility. Go to remote areas.