A Letter from Our Founder

Hi Aurora Chasers!

As a long-time lover of the night sky and rare natural phenomena, I’m excited to bring you this website!

It has been an honor and a joy to lead the Michigan Aurora Chasers, and it has been rewarding beyond my imagination. I’m Melissa F. Kaelin, and just over three years ago, I created a group for Northern Lights enthusiasts in Michigan. It has now grown to over 100,000 members, with some of the highest engagement both online and out in the community. Our state of Michigan is a special place. It’s surrounded by the Great Lakes on nearly all sides, it’s far enough north to stimulate the senses across four seasons, and it’s fortunate to have countless nature enthusiasts and talented artists call it home. It also faces unique challenges, like frequent heavy cloud cover and forecasting for two peninsulas!

When I founded the Michigan Aurora Chasers, I had no idea our group would become the inspiration for International Dark Sky Parks, become a resource for people across the state and the country, and see members rise to the level of skills and talents they’ve achieved today. That’s what happens when you welcome beginners — and people of all backgrounds and experience levels — and create a supportive community that stands ready to mentor and teach. The talent grows exponentially!

I’m proud of what the Michigan Aurora Chasers has become.

I also deeply appreciate the work of our Admins, Group Experts, active members and dark sky advocates, and everyone who has lifted us up. We’re all volunteers here, but this is a labor of love. The group gives back to us way more than we give to the group. You can support our hardest working team members by visiting our Gratitude Link Tree or thanking Our Team. I’m honored to chase the Aurora alongside all of you!

On the Founder’s page, I’ve decided to share some of my own work and contributions that I hope might offer support and encouragement to Aurora Chasers everywhere.

Good luck on the Aurora Chasing trail!

— Melissa F. Kaelin
Founder of the Michigan Aurora Chasers
August 7, 2024

Keep advice from the Michigan Aurora Chasers at your fingertips anywhere you go!
MichiganAuroraChasers.com