Northern Lights Update: Here’s Where Aurora Borealis Can Be Viewed Tonight
The Northern Lights can potentially be seen from several northern U.S. states tuesday night, according to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration update, as space weather forecasters predict an increase in geomagnetic activity capable of triggering a strong aurora borealis.
KEY FACTS
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a KP index of seven for Saturday night, indicating that individuals on the northern tip of the United States may view the aurora as it becomes “quite bright and active.”
The agency has issued a strong geomagnetic storm watch, which may increase viewing opportunities for the Northern Lights.
The viewing line reaches as far south as central Nebraska, with the possibility of seeing auroras rising as one moves further north.
The viewing line is expected to travel further north by Sunday night, with a KP index forecast of five, indicating a reduced possibility of visibility than Saturday.
WHERE WILL THE NORTHERN LIGHTS BE VISIBLE TONIGHT?
The view line includes states such as Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Maine. Most sections of the states have a minimal probability of viewing the Northern Lights, but the upper reaches of Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota have a substantially higher chance.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?
The hours between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. will mark the best potential viewing time for the Northern Lights. Those looking to catch a glimpse of the natural phenomenon should do so in areas with no light pollution and clear forecasts.
HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE LIGHTS?
Night mode and longer exposure times on smartphones can help viewers grab photos of the Northern Lights, as well as an increase in camera exposure.
KEY BACKGROUND
Saturday’s optimistic forecast follows a rather good performance on Friday night, which was expected to create a powerful geomagnetic storm with a KP index of five. Solar activity has increased in recent months, indicating that Solar Cycle 25, the sun’s 11-year solar cycle, will peak between late 2024 and early 2026. The cycle is expected to result in more sunspots (115 to be exact) and stronger geomagnetic storms.
Leave a Reply