A small group of northern U.S. states will have a chance at seeing the Northern Lights on Tuesday night, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the latest opportunity for residents to potentially observe the national phenomenon amid a month of increased aurora borealis activity.
There is a low chance to see the lights in some parts of the northern states Tuesday night. (Photo ... [+]
NOAA predicts a KP index of four on Tuesday night, meaning the aurora will brighten and be more prone to increased motions and formations.
Observers thinking about getting a glimpse at the Northern Lights should do so Tuesday night, as NOAA’s aurora forecast predicts a dramatic decrease in activity Wednesday night in addition to a viewing line that moves far north of the U.S.
The aurora’s curved viewing line for Tuesday night reaches as far south as South Dakota, though the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights at the bottom of the line is minimal.
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Northern areas of states like Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin have a small chance at seeing the lights Tuesday night.
Tuesday's viewing line.
Observers will need to be outside somewhere between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. for the best possible chance at seeing the lights. Areas with clear forecasts and little to no light pollution will have the most suitable viewing conditions.
Night mode and slow shutter speeds are the best settings to apply to your smartphone for decent photos of the Northern Lights.
The northern U.S. and Canada have experienced increased and somewhat consistent solar activity since July. The increase in activity has contributed to about a week’s worth of chances to see the natural phenomenon in the U.S., with KP index forecasts reaching as high as seven a little more than a week ago. Sun spots, the source of geomagnetic storms that can trigger aurora borealis, are forecasted to peak in 2025 with 115 spots, according to a NOAA forecast.
Tips on Viewing the Aurora (NOAA)
What are the Northern Lights? And how can you see them? (BBC)