See the Northern Lights Tonight: Best US Viewing Spots

Northern Lights Could Light Up US Skies Tonight: Here’s Were to Look

(Published June 2, 2024 – Updated June 2, 2024 at 8:00 AM EST)

A spectacular celestial display may be visible across a large swath of the United States tonight! Following a series of recent solar storms, forecasters predict the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) could grace the skies as far south as Pennsylvania. this rare opportunity is sparking excitement among skywatchers, and here’s everything you need to know.

[image of dazzling Northern Lights in Alaska – Hasan Akbas/Anadolu via Getty Images]

What’s Happening? A Solar Storm Explained

The sun recently unleashed a powerful “coronal mass ejection” – a massive burst of energy – towards Earth.this triggered a severe solar storm alert on Sunday, and another wave is expected to arrive today, potentially amplifying the aurora displays.

These events are linked to the sun’s 11-year activity cycle, which is currently at its peak. this means more frequent and widespread aurora sightings. The sun’s magnetic poles are also preparing to swap places, causing increased magnetic activity and stunning light shows.

Where Can you See the Northern Lights Tonight?

Forecasters predict the Northern lights could be visible in the following states:

Alaska
Washington
Montana
North Dakota
Minnesota
michigan
Maine
Northern Idaho

What are the best ways to increase my chances of seeing the Northern Lights in the US, given the current solar activity and geomagnetic conditions?

Where to See the Northern Lights in the US (Tonight!)

Are you ready to chase the Northern Lights? witnessing the Aurora Borealis is a bucket-list experience, and you don’t necessarily have to travel to Iceland or Norway to see it. Several states in the US offer excellent opportunities for viewing the aurora forecast. This guide helps you understand the best locations, optimal viewing conditions, and practical tips for catching the celestial show, potentially during the next aurora event.

Understanding the Aurora Borealis: A Quick Guide

Before you head out, itS essential to understand the basics. The aurora is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding wiht gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions create the stunning light displays we see as the Northern Lights. The intensity and location of the aurora are influenced by factors like solar activity (measured by the Kp index), geomagnetic storms, and the presence of a dark sky. Getting familiar with these factors improves your aurora viewing chances.

• Kp Index: this is a global geomagnetic index from 0-9. Higher values mean a stronger aurora and potentially wider visibility.
• Solar Flares & Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs): Events on the sun that release charged particles, driving the aurora.
• Dark Skies: Away from city lights is vital for optimal viewing.

Top US States to See the Northern Lights

The best viewing spots are typically in the northernmost states,but even lower latitudes can get a glimpse during strong geomagnetic events. Consider these prime locations for Northern Lights viewing:

alaska

alaska reigns supreme! With its vast wilderness and proximity to the auroral oval, it offers prime viewing opportunities. Cities like Fairbanks and Anchorage, though having light pollution, still provide views, and traveling a short distance north drastically improves visibility. Check local Fairbanks aurora forecasts and specific viewing locations.

Fairbanks, Alaska is one of the top spots. Hear’s a little about viewing:

• Viewing Season: Late august to April
• Best Places: Chena Hot Springs, the outskirts of Fairbanks.
• Things to Do: Aurora viewing resorts, aurora-themed events.

Maine

Even though less common, Maine offers chances to see the aurora, especially during intense geomagnetic storms. Coastal areas and northern Maine offer the best visibility.

• viewing Season: Generally November through March
• Best Places: Aroostook County, Acadia National Park.
• Things to Do: Explore Acadia (day and night, plan Aurora viewing at night)

Montana

Montana’s wide-open spaces and dark skies make it an underrated gem for aurora viewing. The northern part of the state, particularly near Glacier National Park, offers excellent conditions.

• Viewing Season: Usually Winter and early spring.
• Best Places: Glacier National Park (North Fork)
• Things to Do: plan aurora-themed events.

Michigan

The Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan offers beautiful nights that can be perfect for viewing. Michigan’s remote UP areas allow viewers to escape light pollution.

• Viewing Season: The best time of year for aurora viewing is from September through March
• Best Places: Headlands International Dark Sky Park

US state	Typical Viewing Season	Key Viewing Areas	Tip
Alaska	September – April	Fairbanks, Anchorage (outskirts), Denali National Park	Use an aurora app for real time forecasts.
Maine	November – March	acadia National Park, Aroostook County	Check weather forecast for clear skies.
Montana	Winter & Early Spring	Glacier National Park (North Fork)	pack warm layers & bring a tripod.
Michigan	September – March	Headlands International Dark Sky Park	check real-time auroral activity

How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Aurora

Here’s what you need to know to improve your chances of a successful Northern Lights hunt

• Monitor the Aurora Forecast: Use websites and apps that provide real-time updates on the Kp index,solar activity,and aurora alerts.
• Get Away from Light Pollution: Drive away from city lights to find dark skies.
• check the Weather: Clear skies are essential. Cloudy nights will obscure the aurora.
• Be Patient: The aurora can be unpredictable. Be prepared to wait.
• Use a Camera: Your eyes may see faint light; a camera with a long exposure can capture even more detail. Try a camera with good low-light performance. consider a DSLR or a mirrorless camera and a wide aperture lens (f/2.8 or wider).
• Dress Warmly: Temperatures in prime viewing locations can be very cold.