Topline
Residents in a few of the U.S.’ northernmost states will have a chance to spot the northern lights Thursday night, according to a forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
2024 has marked a strong year for northern lights activity. (Photo by Michael Seamans/Getty Images)
Key Facts
NOAA forecasts a Kp index of three for Thursday night, meaning the aurora may move further from the poles and become brighter in certain areas.
The viewing line stretches down to the bottom of North Dakota, though chances of seeing aurora borealis will increase the farther north viewers are from it.
Thursday’s viewing line does not include any of the mainland U.S. as part of a forecast that predicts a Kp index of two, which calls for a weak northern lights showing and low auroral activity.
Space weather conditions are quiet, according to NOAA, which has not issued any watches for geomagnetic storms typically associated with increased auroral activity.
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Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible Thursday Night?
Areas included within Thursday’s viewing line include the northern tip of Idaho, northern Montana, North Dakota, northern Michigan and northern Wisconsin. For viewers in Alaska, chances of seeing the northern lights increase from west to east.
Thursday's viewing line.
How Can You Watch The Northern Lights?
The peak hours for viewing the northern lights are 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., according to NOAA. Clear skies and areas with little to no light pollution are most ideal for catching a glimpse of the aurora.
How Can You Photograph The Lights?
Night mode is recommended for sky gazers looking to photograph the northern lights, as are low shutter speeds and wide apertures. For those looking to take photos with regular cameras, wide-angle lenses and high ISO values are recommended for shooting.
Key Background
Auroral activity has been particularly active this year, with May marking the strongest geomagnetic storm Earth has seen in two decades. The storm created potentially one of the strongest northern lights displays in the last 500 years, according to NASA. The increase in auroral activity coincides with the sun reaching a “solar maximum,” the peak of its 11-year solar cycle that creates an increase in sunspots associated with more frequent geomagnetic storms. The rise in solar activity is forecast to continue into late next year, producing increased auroral activity.
Further Reading
NASA, NOAA: Sun Reaches Maximum Phase in 11-Year Solar Cycle (NASA)
