Topline
There might be a chance to see the Northern Lights in some U.S. states on Thursday night. There is a geomagnetic storm watch that could line up with the Perseid meteor shower this weekend.
Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, might be visible in certain U.S. states. This beautiful natural phenomenon can be seen dancing over Loch Glascarnoch in the UK.
Key Facts
A group of solar eruptions happened recently and is expected to show this weekend.
A moderate geomagnetic storm watch is in place for Friday and Saturday, and there’s a chance to see the Northern Lights on Thursday night.
Thursday night’s aurora has a KP index of four, making it brighter and more visible even further from the poles.
The upcoming aurora might coincide with the Perseid meteor shower, peaking on Sunday night and Monday morning.
Solar activity has been busy recently, hinting at more geomagnetic storms in the coming years.
Where to See the Northern Lights Tonight
The Northern Lights might be most visible in Canada, Alaska, and certain U.S. states on Tuesday night.
How to View and Photograph the Northern Lights
The best time to see the aurora is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Traveling away from city lights, monitoring weather conditions, and finding a good vantage point are key.
Background Information
Solar Cycle 25 has brought about geomagnetic storms and sightings of the Northern Lights. The cycle is expected to peak between late 2024 and early 2026.
Vocabulary List:
- Aurora /əˈrɔːrə/ (noun): A natural electrical phenomenon characterized by the appearance of colorful lights in the sky typically in polar regions.
- Geomagnetic /ˌdʒiːəʊmæɡˈnɛtɪk/ (adjective): Relating to the magnetic field produced by planetary bodies such as Earth.
- Perseid /ˈpɜːr.si.ɪd/ (noun): A meteor shower that occurs annually when the Earth passes through the debris left by the comet Swift-Tuttle.
- Eruption /ɪˈrʌpʃən/ (noun): An outburst or release of energy often referring to volcanic activity but also applicable to solar phenomena.
- Visibility /ˌvɪzəˈbɪləti/ (noun): The degree to which something can be seen or noticed.
- Cycle /ˈsaɪ.kəl/ (noun): A series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.
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