CRUISE line Hurtigruten has appointed leading Northern Lights astronomer Tom Kerss as ‘the world’s first Chief Aurora Chaser’ – and he’ll be leading selected itineraries.

Tom, a scientist with a degree in astrophysics, has penned several best-selling astronomy books, worked at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, and is on speed dial for news organisations in need of expert commentary on the aurora.

Now, he’s adding the role of Chief Aurora Chaser as well as continuing as one of the onboard astronomers on Hurtigruten’s Astronomy Voyages, where he breathes life into the science behind the Northern Lights.

“Photos and video don’t do justice to it,” he says of watching the aurora first hand. “It’s like when you watch an eclipse on the television – it’s muted. Plain.

“When you watch an eclipse in real life, you understand why people would get on their knees and pray. Seeing the aurora in person is like witnessing the birth of something supernatural.

“You feel it in your soul. That human and humbling sensation of feeling small in a world of absolute wonder.”

You can read a full interview with Tom about his appointment here. For Hurtigruten itineraries and info, set sail here.

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