Northern Lights to Dazzle a Wider Audience Tonight: What’s Driving This Display?
A moderate geomagnetic storm is expected to bring the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights, visible to a surprisingly large swath of the United States tonight and early Thursday. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts visibility as far south as Nebraska and Iowa.
Understanding the Science Behind the Spectacle
This celestial display is caused by disruptions in Earth’s upper atmosphere due to solar activity. Specifically, a coronal mass ejection (CME) – a massive eruption of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun – left the sun on March 16 and is predicted to peak Thursday morning. NOAA is forecasting a Kp index of six on a scale of nine, indicating a significant geomagnetic disturbance.
Where to Look for the Aurora
While Canada and Alaska offer the highest probability of witnessing the lights, the predicted “view line” extends further south than usual. States with the best chances include Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine. Northern and Western New York, along with northern portions of Nebraska, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Iowa and Illinois may likewise be treated to a view.
The northern lights in Greenland on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026.
Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved
Beyond the Visuals: Potential Impacts of the CME
The arrival of the CME could also trigger a solar sector boundary crossing, leading to a change in the orientation of Earth’s solar wind magnetic field, according to NOAA. There is also a 10% chance of a small solar radiation storm. These storms occur when high-speed protons from the sun reach Earth, potentially impacting space launches, aviation, satellite operations, and exposing individuals on polar routes to radiation.
Tips for Viewing and Capturing the Northern Lights
To maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, NOAA recommends venturing as far away from light pollution as possible and finding a high vantage point. The best viewing time is typically between 10 p.m. And 2 a.m. Local time, facing north.
For smartphone photography, disable the flash and enable night mode. A tripod is recommended for stabilization. For dedicated cameras, use a wide-angle lens, an aperture of f/4 or lower, and set the focus to the furthest possible setting.
The Increasing Frequency of Space Weather Events
While spectacular, these events highlight the increasing importance of space weather forecasting. As our reliance on space-based technologies grows, understanding and predicting solar activity becomes crucial for protecting critical infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What causes the northern lights?
A: The northern lights are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere.
Q: Is this storm dangerous?
A: While a small solar radiation storm is possible, the predicted impacts are generally minor.
Q: Where is the best place to see the northern lights?
A: Canada and Alaska typically offer the best viewing opportunities, but tonight, several states in the northern US have a good chance.
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