The Aurora Borealis has many different names across the world - commonly known as the Northern Lights, it is also referred to as the 'heavenly dancers', 'merry dancers' or as the Finnish call it 'revontulet' which literally translates to fox fires.
With the Aurora 'season' approaching, head to Finland to go on the hunt for the Northern Lights.
The Northern lights have been greatly respected and looked to as an omen for guidance throughout history. The ancient Finns believed the lights were caused when a mythical fox waved its tail which sent luminous snow and sparks into the sky.
Many other names and stories have been attributed to the Aurora throughout history, with the phenomenon ingrained in the traditions of many of the ancient civilisations who inhabit the areas from which it can be seen.
Several early beliefs held that the northern lights were caused from the energy of departed souls.
It is easy to see how these beliefs were adopted when you see the beautifully eerie, bright patterns and witness the supernatural sensation which the phenomenon still gives off.
The red flickers in the lights which can sometimes be seen were thought of as omens of war, and represented bloodshed in ancient societies dating back to Greek mythology.
Some Native American tribes perceived the scarlet flecks in the lights as the restless souls of slain enemies who would bring plagues or war.
For those who seek the Aurora Borealis today, Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the phenomenon.
Some regions of Finland have over 200 nights when the Northern Lights can be seen each year. So if you want to see excited electrons emitting lights across expansive skies, head to Finland this winter!
The recently launched 'Aurora Hunters' offers exceptional Aurora Borealis and Photography Tours in a beautiful, unspoiled part of Finnish Lapland, Inari where light pollution is not affecting the visibility of the phenomenon. Inari is considered one of the best places from where to see the Northern Lights.
Visit www.aurorahunters.com for more details.
The Aurora Borealis 'season' is between October and March - check the forecast at www.spaceweather.com which has a continuous stream of up-to-date information.