Tonight, the northern lights will be visible across 25 U.S. states, offering a stunning natural display that skywatchers won’t want to miss. According to a forecast from NOAA, the aurora borealis will be visible from northern regions all the way down to parts of the U.S. midsection. As solar activity continues to influence geomagnetic conditions, pockets of the aurora are expected to light up the night sky. Whether you’re in Alaska, Minnesota, or New York, tonight offers an exciting opportunity to catch a glimpse of this mesmerizing spectacle. Make sure to find a dark, clear spot and look northward for the best views.
Where Will the Northern Lights Be Visible?
Thanks to NOAA’s detailed space weather forecast, we now know that the northern lights will extend beyond the typical northern regions. The aurora borealis will be visible as far south as parts of the U.S., with the best chances in states close to the Canadian border. However, anyone in darker, rural areas,away from the bright lights of the city, may catch a glimpse of the auroras.
Here’s a breakdown of the25 states where you might be able to see the northern lights tonight:
- Alaska
- Connecticut
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Each of these states has the potential to see the northern lights, with those in the northernmost parts having the clearest views. Cities like Anchorage in Alaska, Minneapolis in Minnesota, and Buffalo in New York may experience more intense auroral activity, while southern locations might only see fainter displays. Make sure to head to dark, open areas where you can see the northern sky clearly for the best chance of spotting the lights.
The Best Time to Watch the Northern Lights
For those hoping to witness this cosmic phenomenon, timing is crucial. The best time to watch the northern lights is after nightfall, with optimal viewing occurring between10 PM and 2 AM local time. Since the northern lights are most visible when the sky is darkest, it’s important to head out into areas away from artificial lighting, such as city lights, which can obscure the aurora’s brilliance.
Before heading out, keep in mind that the auroras are not a constant display. They may appear as faint glows along the horizon or as vibrant, colorful streaks of light dancing across the sky. If you’re in the right location and the aurora is visible, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled, auroras can move quickly, and they may shift in brightness and form over time.
How to Capture the Northern Lights
For those hoping to photograph the northern lights, you don’t need to be a professional photographer to capture their beauty. If you’re using a smartphone, many devices come equipped with a “Night Mode” or “Pro Mode” that allows you to adjust the exposure times for better long-exposure shots. Keep your camera steady, as even the smallest movement can blur your images. A tripod is recommended for more stable shots.
If you have access to aDSLR or mirrorless camera, consider using a wide-angle lens with a long exposure setting. Focus on a distant light or a star to ensure sharpness. You may also want to experiment with different ISO settings to achieve the best results, as the northern lights can vary in brightness.
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