Some might embark on the journey with a quiet power generator, like a solar generator, to elevate the pleasure. Such a portable genset helps to enhance the celestial experience even more, juicing up necessary devices on the go and helping to capture all those precious moments.
Regarding off-grid living on a Northern Lights tour, Jackery offers versatile green energy solutions for sustainably exploring nature. In this guide, we will decode why a portable genset is the best companion for observing the Aurora and the finest spots to go to.
Top 5 Places to Observe the Aurora in Canada
- Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories boast one of the finest locations for observing the Northern Lights. Since it is situated beneath the auroral oval, this region is renowned for hosting the most frequent and intense aurora borealis. Besides, the crystal clear skies help viewers have a superb experience of witnessing glory. Throughout the year, the NWT boasts up to 240 nights of captivating Northern Lights activity, with peak seasons occurring during fall and winter. [1]
More excitingly, Aurora sometimes occurs in shades of violent or crimson in this region due to Auroral storms. When solar-charged particles travel close to the Earth's surface, they excite nitrogen molecules at low altitudes of up to 80 kilometres. Auroral storms are triggered when the sun expels a continuous massive quantity of charged particles, causing solar winds. With a racing speed reaching up to 3 million km each hour, this bombardment initiates a show of Northern Lights, turning the sky into shades of colours.
- Manitoba
With a rich blend of wildlife and natural wonders, Manitoba is an excellent destination for observing the Aurora in Canada. In particular, the town of Churchill, known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World," contributes to the popularity of this province. Under the auroral zone, Churchill is where the Northern Lights grace the sky for up to 300 nights a year, per Travel Manitoba.[2] The town's beautiful surroundings elevate the aurora-watching experience, including rich marine diversity and polar bear species.
- Yukon
The Yukon, located in the northern region of Canada, hosts some of the country's best celestial displays and winter activities. For those seeking to observe the Aurora, head to the territory during the Winter months, from November to March.[3] These long, dark nights provide the perfect backdrop for the bright hues of Aurora.
For the best views of the Northern Lights, head to the Whitehorse – the region's capital. Here, you'll be able to observe the Aurora as early as 9 pm during the winter months,[4] along with several other leisurely experiences, including learning about the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, taking a dip at the Takhini Hot Springs, and Lake Laberge snowmobiling.
- Nunavut
Forming the major part of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Nunavut is the largest territory in the country. Plus, it gets its fame by enabling people to appreciate some of the most beautiful Northern Lights, particularly between October and April.[5] During these months, the days are remarkably short. While this may be bad news for those who despise darkness, it becomes a promising opportunity for aurora enthusiasts.
The extended periods of darkness allow the Northern Lights to paint the sky in shades of blue, green, and red. Due to the region's limited population and remote location, Nunavut has minimal light pollution, creating the right conditions for observing the Aurora.
- Newfoundland and Labrador
Located in eastern Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador have a sparse population and untouched wilderness. As a result, the province creates ideal conditions for observing the Aurora on nearly 60 nights throughout the year.[6] The prime seasons for viewing the best Northern Lights here fall between September and October. You may also plan your visits during March and April.
For those seeking the best aurora-viewing experience, head to the Torngat Mountains National Park or Battle Harbour. These locations offer a clear view of the Northern Lights and have a beautiful natural setting, boosting the overall experience. However, Newfoundland and Labrador are prone to coastal cloud covers, making it crucial to plan according to the forecast.
Now we know northern regions of Canada are the best for observing the Aurora; it is also noticeable that breathtaking views most often appear in remote areas under chilly temperatures, bringing out the electricity problem. And that's why the best portable power station or the best portable genset emerges as a necessity to enhance your experience.
Driving up North: Why Do You Need a Portable Genset
When heading north to observe the fascinating Aurora in Canada, bringing a portable genset can make your off-grid trip much smoother. It is an exciting adventure akin to off-grid outdoor activities with practical challenges. Apart from concerns about food and safety, ensuring a reliable power supply is crucial for keeping your devices and appliances running.
A portable genset addresses this concern, allowing you to enjoy the Northern Lights while staying connected and entertained during the journey. Let's explore why a mini portable generator makes your off-grid experience stress-free.
- Connectivity and Navigation
Going on an off-grid trip means being disconnected from conventional power sources, leaving travellers without the means to juice up their devices on the go. In this case, having a power inverter generator provides a reliable power source for laptops and smartphones. It means you can navigate the location, stay connected with friends and family, and capture the Aurora without a hitch.
- Powering Appliances
Apart from powering devices, a portable genset can also keep your appliances running on the trip. For those who plan to camp in search of the Aurora, having a power source means being able to light up the campsite at dark hours. And if you plan on cooking, it can also power up a stove or electric grills and preserve perishable foods by running a mini-fridge. In addition, a portable genset proves invaluable for families travelling up north in a Recreational Vehicle. By providing you with a backup power source in case the RV runs out of power, a portable genset lets you jumpstart your vehicle (and resume your celestial experience in no time).
- Comfort and Entertainment
Amid awe-inspiring scenery, enhancing your experience becomes effortless by playing your preferred playlist or serene nature-inspired tunes. A portable genset takes this experience a step further, offering continuous entertainment as you have the flexibility to run your speakers for an extended duration. This convenient power source adds a dynamic element, ensuring an immersive and enjoyable atmosphere under the captivating backdrop of stunning views.
Types of Portable Gensets: Which One Should You Choose
With advancements, multiple portable gensets are available today, from gasoline and solar generators to inverter-powered options. These gensets differ in their energy production, each suited for different purposes. Let's look at the main types of portable gensets on the market today.
- Solar Generators
When powering your adventures to the Northern Lands in Canada, solar generators are a preferred choice for many. While whole-home solar generators may be expensive, their portable counterparts offer a more practical solution. Since they harness renewable solar energy, these generators are an ideal companion for camping and Aurora trips up north.
The built-in or detachable solar panels enable users to optimize energy absorption by adjusting the panels to better capture the sun's rays. Paired with portable power stations that store the energy for later use, the genset ensures a reliable power supply even in off-grid areas like the Northwest Territories and the Yukon.
- Gasoline Generators
Gasoline or petrol generators use internal combustion engines to convert chemical energy stored in gasoline to electrical energy. These portable gensets are usually used as a backup power source during electricity outages or in off-grid locations. While these generators are known for their portability and versatility, they come with a bunch of downsides.
Firstly, gas-powered generators have higher operational noise levels than solar options. They also adversely impact the environment due to the emissions produced by gasoline combustion. Plus, gas generators may not be the ideal choice for cold climates like the northern regions of Canada. Under low temperatures, the gasoline in the chilled generators cannot vaporize correctly, translating into a lack of ignition in cold regions.
- Diesel Generators
Diesel generators, as the name suggests, rely on diesel rather than gasoline for fuel. Unlike their gasoline counterparts, these generators have an enhanced fuel efficiency. Plus, when fueled with winter diesel, they work well in cold climates.
However, diesel generators tend to be louder than gasoline generators, meaning they would need to be placed far from your tents. They also demand regular maintenance checks, with oil changes and heavy repair costs.
Power Your Adventures With Jackery: Clean, Portable Energy Anywhere
Due to the maturity of solar technology and the accessibility of solar resources, solar-powered portable generators are the ideal companions for observing the Aurora, with green, noiseless operations that support all your adventures.
Jackery knows all you need when driving north and observing the marvellous. Here, we are gonna recommend two of our solutions to demonstrate how our sustainable energy products help you explore nature with sustainable coziness.
- Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
With a 2 kWh to 24 kWh expandable capacity, Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is a versatile power solution that caters to all your northern adventures. Ideal for off-grid living and prolonged blackouts, this device stands out for its ability to power heavy-duty devices, boasting a maximized output of 6000W.
Here's a look at some of its features:
- Ultra-Fast Solar Charging: The advanced IBC technology allows for a rapid solar charge in just 2 hours, making the power source fully independent of the traditional power grid. A complete solar charge, using six Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels, takes approximately 6 hours.
- Long-Lasting Reliability: It comes with a superior LiFePO4 battery with a remarkable 10-year lifespan, even with daily use. The battery remains at 70% after 4,000 charge cycles — great for durability and efficiency.
- ChargeShield Technology: This portable genset comes with ChargeShield technology that enhances safety and increases battery pack lifespan by 50%. Using a variable speed-changing algorithm, it provides 62 protective mechanisms and four types of physical safety protection.
- Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro stands out as a smart power solution, with a 3024Wh capacity and 3000W power output. Versatile in nature, this portable genset makes an excellent companion for off-grid living, camping, RVs, or handling home emergencies.
Read on for some of its features that set it apart from the rest:
- Large Capacity: Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro can power most outdoor appliances. With a 3024Wh capacity, you don't need to worry about running out of juice.
- Ultra Fast Charging: With ultra-fast charging capabilities, the power station generator can be fully charged in 6-7.5 hours. For those considering wall-charging, your portable genset will get back on its feet in only 2.4 hours, ensuring quick recharge and power backups.
- Cold Friendly: Its power station and solar panels can keep working in temperatures as low as -20°C/-4° Based on its battery level, the genset adjusts its output, ensuring peak performance even in northern regions.
- All-around Safety: The Battery Management System (BMS) provides a comprehensive defence with 12 layers of protection, guarding against short circuits, overvoltages, and various other risks. Additionally, the pure sine wave inverter ensures a stable power supply, offering protection for connected appliances.
With the Jackery app, both models are available for you to control and monitor on the go. This smart app control supports real-time status monitoring and customization settings, being compatible with a range of devices.
Conclusion
Beyond showing nature's beauty, the aurora borealis indicates the magic world lying in the expansive cosmos. For those lucky enough to witness it, the northern regions in Canada host some of the brightest and clearest Northern Lights. And while hopping on a trip up north, there's no better companion than a solar portable genset — juicing up your devices on the go while capturing stunning memories.
Relying on solar power aligns with sustainability goals, reducing the environmental impact compared to fuel-powered generators. Jackery, founded in 2012, is on a mission to support those with sustainable choices. Our range of clean and green solutions ensures all your adventure-seeking needs are met while caring for the planet in the best manner.
References:
[1] SPECTACULAR NORTHWEST TERRITORIES, "Why The NWT Has The World's Best Aurora". Available at: https://spectacularnwt.com/story/7-remarkable-reasons-why-northwest-territories-has-finest-auroras-earth/ (Accessed at 28th Jan, 2024)
[2] Travel Manitoba, "Northern Lights". Available at: https://www.travelmanitoba.com/things-to-do/outdoor/northern-lights/ (Accessed at 28th Jan, 2024)
[3] Canadian Affair, "The Northern Lights of Yukon – when and where to see them". Available at: https://www.canadianaffair.com/blog/northern-lights-yukon-see/ (Accessed at 28th Jan, 2024)
[4] Northern Lights Canada, "Best times to see the aurora borealis across Canada". Available at: https://northernlightscanada.com/explore/best-time-see-northern-lights (Accessed at 28th Jan, 2024)
[5] FROBISHER INN, "SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN NUNAVUT". Available at: https://www.frobisherinn.com/aurora-borealis.htm (Accessed at 28th Jan, 2024)
[6] We Explore Canada/2023, "Uncover The Best Places To See Northern Lights In Canada: Discover The Endless Wilds Where The Aurora Blaze Over The Landscape". Available at: https://weexplorecanada.com/northern-lights-in-canada/ (Accessed at 28th Jan, 2024)
