Topline

Exciting news for skywatchers! This Friday night, residents in certain states along the Canadian border could be treated to a spectacular display of the Northern Lights. The excitement intensifies as a recent solar flare promises to push auroral activity further south over the weekend, as forecasted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Key Facts

Where Should You Look for the Northern Lights?

According to NOAA, a viewing line indicates the best chances for seeing the Northern Lights, which sweeps just below the Canadian border. Areas in northern Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota have a fair chance, while states like northern Washington, Idaho, South Dakota, and Wisconsin may experience lesser visibility. If conditions are right, keep your eyes peeled!

Tips for Optimal Viewing

The Northern Lights are typically visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. For a better viewing experience, head to locations with high elevations and away from the bright lights of urban areas. Dark, clear skies significantly enhance your chances of seeing this mesmerizing phenomenon.

Photography Tips for Capturing the Aurora

Want to immortalize the beauty of the Northern Lights? Here’s how! Use a camera with manual settings—set the focus to infinity, choose a wide aperture, engage a low shutter speed, and increase the ISO setting for optimal results. If you're capturing it with a smartphone, enabling night mode and adjusting the shutter speed can yield stunning photos.

What’s Behind the Increased Aurora Activity?

There’s a cosmic dance happening! The sun is currently experiencing its "solar maximum," leading to an uptick in sunspots and coronal mass ejections. This natural cycle not only enhances our chances of witnessing the aurora borealis but also provides a longer window of opportunity, expected to last until 2025 and potentially into early 2026. Yet, there’s more celestial magic on the horizon—the Northern Taurids meteor shower is peaking next week, and other showers like the Leonids, Geminids, Ursids, and Quadrantids will follow.

Don’t Miss Out!

Be sure to mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable night as you keep an eye on the skies. Whether you're a first-time viewer or a seasoned aurora chaser, the upcoming days present a thrilling opportunity for witnessing one of nature's most breathtaking light shows. Get ready to revel in the beauty of the Northern Lights!