Topline

According to an update from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Northern Lights may be spotted from several northern US states on Saturday evening, as space weather forecasters predict an increase in geomagnetic activity that could trigger a strong aurora borealis.

Key facts

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Where will the Northern Lights be visible tonight?

States within or partially included in the line of sight include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Maine. Most regions within the states have a low chance of seeing the Northern Lights, although the upper edges of Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota have a much higher chance.

How do you see the northern lights?

The hours between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM mark the best potential viewing time for the Northern Lights. Those who want to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon should do so in areas without light pollution and with clear forecasts.

How do you photograph the lights?

Night mode and longer exposure times on smartphones can help viewers take photos of the Northern Lights, as can an increase in camera exposure.

Important background

Saturday’s favorable forecast comes after a relatively strong showing on Friday evening, which was expected to produce a strong geomagnetic storm and had a KP index of five. Solar activity has been increasing in recent months, ahead of the expected peak of Solar Cycle 25, the Sun’s 11-year solar cycle, which is expected to peak sometime between late 2024 and early 2026. The cycle is predicted to produce increasingly strong sunspots. (115 to be exact) and increasing geomagnetic storms.

Read more

Northern Lights forecast upgraded for this weekend – Aurora Borealis could be visible in these states (Forbes)