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A new wave of solar energy is lighting up Earth’s magnetic field this week, and NOAA is forecasting small to moderate geomagnetic storms early this week, setting the stage for another Northern Lights display.
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Auroras may dip further south than normal, with the best chances of visibility in eight northern states
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The sun’s activity peaks in the middle of the week, so the best viewing window is 10 p.m. and 2 o’clock at night local time, preferably in dark rural areas with clear northern views.
Heaven is about to appear again!
If you missed the last phase of the northern lights, don’t worry, because space forecasters say another dazzling display could be on the way soon.
The aurora borealis (northern lights) is caused by geomagnetic storms that occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating amazing waves of light in the sky.
A wave of solar energy is expected to ripple through Earth’s magnetic field early this week, causing small to moderate geomagnetic storms from Monday, Nov. 10 through Wednesday, Nov. 12, according to NOAA.
While forecasters are expecting a minor geomagnetic storm tonight (strengthening to moderate Tuesday and Wednesday night), the Aurora Borealis “line of sight” is likely to drop even lower later in the week.
Be sure to capture the magic while it lasts, whether you’re chasing the aurora from your backyard or heading north for clearer skies.
Here’s everything you need to know, when to watch and where to go.
When will the northern lights be visible?
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Northern Lights over Fusch
Auroras should be visible from Monday evening, November 10 through Wednesday, November 12, with peak activity expected on Tuesday and Wednesday.
NOAA’s latest forecast shows small geomagnetic storms starting tonight and strengthening to moderate levels by midweek, allowing the northern lights to peak late Tuesday, November 11, into early Wednesday morning.
Be sure to go outside between 10pm and 2am for the best window view. local time when the sky is darkest.
Where will the northern lights be seen?
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Aurora borealis over Manning Park, British Columbia
Northern States: You love it!
If skies remain clear and weather permits, the aurora may extend into the states of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine.
While your chances improve as you travel north, strong geomagnetic conditions sometimes push the light even deeper into the continental United States, meaning that even stargazers in the Midwest and Great Lakes region can catch a faint twinkle on the northern horizon.
How to observe the northern lights?
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Northern lights in Debra, Slovakia
You don’t need a telescope, just the right location and a little patience.
To see the aurora in all its glory, head away from the city lights, ideally into an open space with a clear northern view.
The trick? Be outside longer than you think, as the northern lights often look like a slow glow before they take on color. Allow your eyes to adjust and look for faint green bands or arcs low in the sky that begin to move or ripple
How to photograph the northern lights?
The only thing better than witnessing this heavenly event? Capture the moment and create memories. The best part? Your smartphone will do it all!
Just turn it on Night mode settings and point the lens at the sky.
For those with more advanced equipment such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera, use a tripod and shoot in manual mode for best results.
Remember, patience goes a long way.
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