Beyond the 45th Parallel: The Beginner's Guide to Chasing Aurora in the Mid-latitudes

by Melissa F. Kaelin

Chase the Aurora in your own backyard! Find out what it takes to view this rare natural phenomenon beyond the 45th Parallel, whether you are chasing in the U.S. or mid-latitudes across the world. This guide caters to beginners with real advice for catching the Aurora beyond the 45th Parallel, which is a magical latitude where northern features cover the landscape in the western hemisphere. The advice is brought to you by the founder of the Michigan Aurora Chasers, a group of about 100,000 Aurora Chasers and climbing which was established in January 2021. Melissa F. Kaelin is a talented writer, speaker and community leader who has helped hundreds of people see the Northern Lights for the first time. The cover features outstanding Aurora photography captured in the mid-latitudes by Cover Artist Shannon Kivi and Michele Aucello.

The 2nd Edition in the 45th Parallel Series opens the art of Aurora Chasing to a broader audience, sharing tips, techniques and insight that will help chasers catch their first Aurora — or more Aurora — anywhere in the world. With seven brand new chapters, expanded terms and techniques, and three distinct tools for beginners, "Beyond the 45th Parallel" will show anyone the ropes of Aurora Chasing. The book includes a Digital Resource Guide, with updated links to space weather resources and other important tools for catching the Aurora when it's active. For the first time, Melissa also shares a personal account of chasing the Northern Lights with a group from the Michigan Aurora Chasers, with pointers on how to be successful. She also shines light on a few joys from her personal life, with a sneak preview of her fiction inspired by Aurora mythology.

The book that led to a year of invitations to give inspiring public speeches is now available in an expanded edition, and the Aurora Chaser and science communications writer behind the scenes is ready to help anyone on the chase. Good luck on the Aurora Chasing trail!

133 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2024

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great resource for those wanting to learn more about the Northern Lights and how to chase them. It goes into the reasons why they are rare but also gives practical tips and advice to follow for a successful chase. I gained so much additional knowledge from the book! The author also provides additional online resources and guides. I have been a member of the author’s online community and highly recommend joining it and reading this book to help you see the beautiful Aurora Borealis!

[AngelaC · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read guide on becoming a Chaser in the mid latitudes. There are a lot of terms but don’t get scared. A few times through and it will make more sense! If you read this book and/or want to see the Northern Lights, join the Michigan Aurora Chaser fb group for more tips, alerts, and stunning photography from amateurs and pros alike. Thanks,Melissa! Looking forward to the 2nd book!