Your Guide to Viewing the Northern Lights Tonight: Aurora Activity Display
Tonight offers a unique opportunity for aurora watchers, as low-level aurora activity is forecasted to light up the skies across Alaska.
While the aurora may not be as intense as during more active solar events, the Aurora Borealis could still be visible in certain regions if conditions are right.
So, if you’re in the northern hemisphere and looking for a chance to catch the Northern Lights, here’s what you need to know.
Aurora Activity: What to Expect Tonight
The aurora tonight is expected to be on the lower end of the scale, with low aurora activity predicted. This means that, while you may not see a brilliant, sweeping light show, you still have a chance to witness faint auroral displays in the night sky.
The lights may be visible overhead in areas from Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow) to Fairbanks, and even visible low on the northern horizon in places as far south as Anchorage and Juneau, provided the skies are clear.
Best Locations to View the Aurora
Ideal Viewing Locations:
The best spots to view the aurora tonight are in the far northern parts of Alaska, where the aurora is more likely to be visible overhead. Utqiaġvik and Fairbanks are prime viewing locations.
If you’re in Anchorage or Juneau, you may still see the aurora low on the northern horizon, but be prepared for a less dramatic display.
Clear Skies Are Key:
The aurora is only visible if skies are clear, so check your local weather before heading out. The best viewing conditions will occur in areas with minimal light pollution, such as remote locations or national parks.
Why This Aurora Display is Special
The aurora tonight is driven by the solar wind, which is blowing at a speed of 432 km/sec. This stream of charged particles interacts with Earth’s magnetic field to create the mesmerizing lights of the aurora.
The magnetic field values are Bt 14 nT and Bz 10 nT, which are conducive to auroral activity, though not as intense as higher solar wind speeds.
What About the Moon?
Tonight’s moon phase is particularly favorable for aurora viewing. The New Moon provides a dark sky, allowing the Northern Lights to shine even more brightly without interference from moonlight.
The Waxing Crescent Moon is expected to have 15% illumination at 12:00 UT, meaning the sky will remain dark for most of the night, making it easier to spot the aurora.
Moonrise will occur at 22:59 UT (or 10:59 PM UTC).
Moonset will take place at 12:18 UT (12:18 PM UTC), meaning the sky will be darkest before sunrise.
Timing Your Viewing
The best time to view the aurora is typically between midnight and 3:00 AM local time, when Aurora activity is usually at its peak.
However, given that this is a low-level aurora forecast, you might spot auroras earlier or later in the evening, especially if the solar wind conditions remain steady.
What Should You Bring?
Since aurora viewing often involves standing outside in chilly temperatures, make sure to wear warm clothing and bring a thermos of hot drink to keep cozy.
Consider bringing a tripod if you want to take photos of the aurora, as long exposures are often needed to capture the subtle movements of the lights.
In Conclusion
While tonight’s aurora display is forecasted to be low in activity, it still presents a great chance for those in northern locations to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
The clear skies and the New Moon phase will make it easier to see, especially for those in areas like Utqiaġvik, Fairbanks, and further south in Anchorage and Juneau.
If you live in one of these regions and the weather cooperates, make sure to head outside to enjoy this beautiful natural phenomenon. You may not see the most intense aurora display, but even a faint aurora can still be a magical experience to witness.
Prepare your warm gear, check the skies, and enjoy the stunning beauty of the Aurora Borealis tonight!
