Solar maximum

January/February 2013

The 2013 solar maximum brightens the skies above Canada, students learn about themselves and the north on a fieldtrip to the Arctic and geographers look back on the first Canadian Arctic Expedition.

In this issue:

• From reflective clouds to giant mesh mirrors, scientists are exploring how geo-engineering could fight climate change

• INFOGRAPHIC: Shoot a cover-worthy photo of the northern lights with tips from a pro

• PHOTOS: Archival images from the first Canadian Arctic Expedition

Aurora borealis

Solar to the max For scientists and northern lights rubberneckers, 2013 promises to be a once-in-a-decade opportunity to experience the sun’s magnetic power at its height
By Peter McMahon with photography by Yuichi Takasaka

PLUS: Get tips from a pro on taking photos of the northern lights and brush up on aurora borealis trivia

Arctic education

An Arctic fieldtrip A group of students from around the world who embark on an unforgettable journey of Arctic education wind up discovering something about themselves in the process
By Samia Madwar with photography Lee Narraway

Fellows

Celebrating the RCGS and geography Images from The Royal Canadian Geographical Society’s annual College of Fellows dinner
By Michela Rosano with photography David Trattles

Exploration

Canada’s unsung expedition

A century after the start of the thrilling expedition that strengthened claims to Canadian sovereignty in the Arctic, the first Canadian Arctic Expedition remains a largely unknown part of the country’s history
By Anne Watson