h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Since we came back from Spain Gordon has mentioned next year's holiday and asked what I'd like to do... had to think about that as there's really only one thing and that's visit the northern regions in the hopes of seeing the aurora. Saturday night he showed me an advert for a cruise around Norway which boasts high probability of auroral views. I know there's no such thing, they happen or they don't, it's pot luck really, but I guess there are better times of year to plan your trip than others. Even then it'd be hit or miss, rather like meteor showers and whale-watching. But there's an upside in not fulfilling your dreams, there's always something to hope and wish for, so I wouldn't be that disappointed if there was a no-show. Being there for the possibility would be the experience, and so we're all set for a Norwegian cruise in the Spring. I am still pinching myself at how lucky I am to have found such a wonderful, thoughtful partner when I thought I was going to spend the rest of my life alone. The holidays are the icing on the

I think the auroras will show up big time. They just like to know in advance that someone special will be there to watch them!

Gb, why not come and lie in wait for the aurora australis?

In a discussion about auroras some years ago, Bumblebee U51488 mentioned she could see them all year around, and she lives in Bergen in Norway.

In Sweden however, I think we can only see auroras in the winter - at least as far as I've heard.

Maybe it's a fjord thing?

Do you need anyone to carry your suitcases?

That sounds incredible! I'm chuffed for you! I remember how down you sounded early last year- what an amazing transformation!

ooh, you might be in for some really good ones though GB. Given that the sun's cycle has just started up again and the forecasts are for a period of violent activity not seen for 150yrs or so, the 2011 to 2012 period peak could see some really major solar storms and flares leading to much greater aurorae. You could get something spectacular

course, it might also put the GPS on the fritz and knock out phone satellites and power lines - but whilst civilisation is crumbling you'll at least get a good light show

It's definitely on my wish list too.

I really must apply for a passport, then I go anywhere - once I've won the lottery

You've been t Yorkshire... Anywhere else will just be an anticlimax...

The coast of Norway is beautiful, even if you don't see any auroras. Particularly Bergen.

*giggles*

At least her list has the correct spelling, Hoggy!

Well, Gordon has chanced his mind, he doesn't want to go on an aurora cruise



Instead, he's going to take us on a flight to see the aurora, then later in the year take us on a cruise up and down the Nile and on to the Holy Land.

Oh, I don't know what to say Nothing, is probably best. Still if it means you really do see it that should be great. To be honest, I know which I would choose and I could do without the heat

I saw Joanna Lumley watching it as you know, and it really touched me. I do hope you do get to see it. it would be such a shame not to after having your hopes raised.



Websailor

It seems to me that the aurora might be rather special seen from a vantage point in the sky.

Hi GB,

I am sure that you will see your aurora....somewhere, sometime and love it.

You will in addition also go on that cruise down the Nile. Somethihng I wish I could have done,

Your Gordon sounds great.

With affection

Chyristiane
AR80

Thursday 7th October, 2010 6.30

Before you go to Egypt, GB, remind me to give you the "Don't drink the water" talk.

I'm not disappointed, Webby, I'm thrilled. My Egyptian interest is almost as big as my love for astronomy. If I got to see the aurora and the pyramids in the same year, that'd be awesome.

The aurora flight lasts 3 hours, and it's 80% anticipated but not guaranteed.

nah, get yourself on the shuttle GB (or the ISS):

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37870206/