Topline
Americans in more than a dozen northern states could see the northern lights Sunday, as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts the aurora borealis will be more visible than usual, extending into the continental U.S.
Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky over a camper’s tent north of San … [+]
AFP via Getty ImagesKey Facts
NOAA projected Sunday’s northern lights will have a Kp index of five—on a scale of nine—which means the aurora borealis will “become brighter” than usual as it moves away from the poles and could be “quite pleasing to look at.”
The forecast predicts the view line for the aurora will extend into the northern U.S., further down than it typically is.
The northern lights are also expected to be more favorable than usual Monday, as NOAA projects a Kp index of three, with the view line extending down into Montana, Minnesota and other northern states.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
The northern lights will be strongest in Alaska on Sunday, according to NOAA, though the entire states of Minnesota and North Dakota, along with nearly all of Montana, South Dakota and Wisconsin are within the area where the aurora could be more visible (see map below). Northern parts of Idaho, Washington, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Iowa and Wyoming are also above the view line for the northern lights, meaning it could be possible to see the lights under favorable conditions.
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
The best time to try and see the northern lights is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., according to NOAA. If you’re hoping to see the lights, the best visibility will be from a spot pointing north that’s away from city light pollution, NOAA suggests. It should also ideally be at a higher altitude, such as on top of a hill.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Those wanting good photos of the northern lights should use a tripod and a wide-angle lens to stabilize the camera and take the best photos, according to photography experts cited by National Geographic. It’s also best to adjust camera settings for lower light conditions, with an aperture or F-stop of four or less. Taking photos on an iPhone or other smartphone camera? Experts suggest it’s also best to use a tripod for smartphone photos, in order to make sure the phone remains stable, along with turning off flash and using night mode if possible.
Key Background
The northern lights have been more visible than usual in recent months as aurora borealis activity has hit what NASA described in October as a 500-year peak, which is expected to continue through 2025 and into 2026. That’s led to instances of the lights being visible at times throughout the U.S., A “solar maximum” in the sun’s 11-year cycle has caused more events, such as solar flares, that make the northern lights easier to see.
Further Reading
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