Northern Lights Tonight: NOAA Forecast Shows Aurora Borealis Visibility for 10 U.S. States

Space weather enthusiasts should keep their eyes on the horizon as the northern lights tonight are projected to remain active across the high-latitude regions of the United States.

Following a period of heightened solar activity, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center reports that while the recent G1 (Minor) geomagnetic storm is beginning to subside, lingering fast solar winds from a coronal hole continue to brush past Earth’s magnetosphere.

This celestial interaction makes the perfect conditions for the aurora borealis, with a Kp index that is expected to reach levels between 3 and 4. For those in the northern tier, tonight offers a prime opportunity to witness the emerald curtains of light before solar activity settles into a quiet phase later this week.

Which States Can See the Northern Lights Tonight?

According to the latest aurora borealis forecast, the viewline the southernmost point where the lights may be visible on the horizon stretches across several northern U.S. states. While the most intense displays are reserved for Alaska and Canada, those in dark-sky locations along the border may catch the glow.

Note: Visibility is highly dependent on local weather conditions and light pollution. NOAA suggests looking toward the northern horizon shortly after sunset.

What Time is Best to Watch the Aurora Borealis?

Timing is everything when tracking the northern lights tonight. While the aurora can technically occur at any time during darkness, geomagnetic activity typically peaks around magnetic midnight.

• Peak Window: 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM local time.

• The Kp Index Factor: Tonight’s Kp index is expected to hover around 3.7. A higher Kp index indicates a stronger storm, pushing the lights further south.

• Moonlight Interference: The sky will be brighter than usual right now because the moon is in its waxing gibbous phase. To see the fainter auroral colors, experts say to either find a place where the moon is blocked or wait until it sets.

Also Read - Northern Lights vs Southern Lights: What’re the Key Differences?

Expert Tips for the Best Viewing Experience

Follow these expert stargazing tips to give yourself the best chance of seeing the northern lights tonight:

• Escape the City: Drive at least 30-40 miles away from city lights. Light pollution is the number one aurora killer.

• Check the Bz Factor: Watch real-time data for a southward Bz. When the interplanetary magnetic field points south, it opens the door for solar particles to enter our atmosphere.

• Use Your Camera: Often, the human eye cannot see faint greens or reds, but a smartphone in Night Mode, with a 3-5 second exposure, can capture the colors vividly.

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While the sun is currently in a spotless stretch, the persistent solar wind ensures that the northern lights tonight remain a high possibility for northern residents. Stay tuned to NOAA's experimental aurora dashboard for real-time updates, and remember to dress warmly for the late-night vigil under the stars.