The breathtaking aurora borealis may be visible this Friday night across several US states. This is thanks to a recent space phenomenon.
A geomagnetic storm pushed the northern lights further south than usual this week. As a result, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) calculates another chance to see them at the right location on October 11, 2024, after many witnessed the event the previous day.
The SWPC has been tracking the aurora’s activity and predicts a KP index of five for Friday night. This index, ranging from 0 to 9, indicates the intensity of the aurora.
A KP of 5 suggests indicates a minor geomagnetic storm, suggesting that auroras may be visible farther south than usual. The aurora typically appears as a green oval centered on Earth’s magnetic pole, but it can turn red during periods of heightened activity.
While often seen just after sunset or before sunrise, the aurora is not visible in daylight. Interestingly, it doesn’t have to be directly overhead to be seen; under ideal conditions, it can be observed from as far as 1,000 km (approximately 621 miles) away.
This celestial display isn’t just a visual wonder; it also serves as an indicator of geomagnetic storm conditions. These events can impact various technologies, including radio communication and GPS navigation.
The SWPC emphasizes the aurora borealis as an exceptional opportunity for many to personally experience the wonders of space weather. It is a captivating nighttime display that entices people to journey to Arctic regions simply to witness its beauty.
To see this event, the SWPC suggests finding a location with minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view to the north. A higher vantage point, like a hill, can further enhance the viewing experience. Additionally, the optimal time to watch is usually within an hour or two of midnight, between 10 PM and 2 AM local time.
So, which states are most likely to catch this dazzling display? According to the view line calculated by the SWPC, Alaska and northern parts of Washington have a higher chance of seeing it. Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are also in this range.
Other states, including South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, also have a possibility, though the likelihood is lower.
Other parts of the world may also witness the aurora. For example, the Meteorological Office predicts that cloudy skies will obstruct visibility across most of the UK, except in Scotland, where the aurora may still be visible.
This week’s stunning aurora borealis displays weren’t a surprise. The SWPC issued a G4 storm watch on October 9, 2024, following a coronal mass ejection from the Sun on October 8th.
This powerful solar event had the potential to cause significant disruptions to crucial infrastructure. “There is potential to reach G4 (Severe) upon arrival of this CME and throughout its passage,” the SWPC warned. Eventually, the storm got stronger than initial predictions.
This Friday night, the aurora borealis promises a captivating spectacle for those lucky enough to witness it. However, remember, these predictions can change depending on local weather conditions. The unpredictable nature of this space phenomenon also factors into any chance of viewing.