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NEED TO KNOW
- A colorful round of auroras is set to return to the skies this weekend, offering an opportunity for stargazers in up to eight states
- This cosmic phenomenon is tied to recent solar activity, which has been stirring up both beauty and challenges here on planet Earth
- Visibility may extend farther south than usual, giving more regions a chance to experience the spectacle firsthand
Get ready, skywatchers!
The northern lights are gearing up to dazzle the night sky for a second time this week, so whether you’re lucky enough to catch them in person or simply admire from afar, this is always a reason to stop and look up.
The aurora borealis (northern lights) is a result of geomagnetic storms, which occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating brilliant waves of light in the sky.
As the days grow shorter, auroral activity increases, but it can still be visible throughout the year. According to NASA, solar activity has led to increased aurora visibility and impacts on satellites and infrastructure in recent months.
Tonight’s auroral forecast, however, predicts a Kp index of four (on a scale from zero to nine), suggesting that northern lights may be visible as far south as southern Minnesota along the state’s boundary with Iowa, per NOAA.
This is a result of minor geomagnetic storms earlier in the day and Thursday night, along with solar storms the previous day, after high-speed winds from a cooler, less dense spot on the sun’s surface disrupted the Earth’s magnetic field.
Read on for how and when to catch a glimpse of this weekend’s stellar event.
When will the northern lights be visible?
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Auroral activity is likely this evening, Oct. 3, and over the weekend, per NOAA’s three-day forecast. Still, auroras are expected to dissipate through Sunday night, with a projected Kp index of just over three for Saturday, Oct. 4, and Sunday, Oct 5.
Where will the northern lights be visible?
Artem Tsehelnyk/Suspilne Ukraine/JSC “UA:PBC”/Global Images Ukraine via Getty
While Canada and Alaska are in for the best chances of spotting the northern lights after sunset, states including Washington, Idaho, Montana, the Dakotas, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine could also catch a glimpse this weekend.
How to watch the northern lights
Ross Harried/NurPhoto via Getty
Here’s a tip: keep your eyes on the northern horizon. The key is patience and the darker your surroundings, the better your chances.
At first, the aurora may show up as a faint, shadowy glow, but give your vision a moment to adjust and the colors will soon reveal themselves. The best part? You don’t need fancy gear or a telescope to enjoy the show.
The northern lights are visible with the naked eye. Just make sure you find a wide, open spot away from city lights for the clearest view.
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How to take photos of the northern lights?
Ian Forsyth/Getty
Want to capture the magic for yourself? Your smartphone will do the trick! Just switch on Night Mode in your settings and aim your lens at the sky.
For those with more advanced gear, like a DSLR or mirrorless camera, use a tripod and shoot in manual mode for the best results. Either way, patience goes a long way.