![]() ![]() The storm watch is in effect from August 17 through 19 and could push the aurora lights farther south, making them visible from regions in the mainland U.S. Here, find out how to get a peek at the northern lights. to catch a glimpse of the spectacular show. ![]() This phenomenon, scientifically known as the aurora borealis, is usually only visible near Alaska, Canada, and the North Pole, but this strong storm may make it easier for those living in the northern U.S. this week (where they’re not typically seen), according to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. A strong geomagnetic storm may bring the stunning colors of the northern lights to the northern part of the mainland U.S. While I’ll personally be gazing at cloudy skies and no aurora the next two days from here in Cleveland, I’m wishing all of you in the northern states good luck seeing the unforgettable dance of aurora across the sky.There’s no need to travel north to see breathtaking sky views this week. If you can, switch to red flashlights rather than your smartphone flashlight or car headlights red lights work better to allow your eyes to adjust and stay adjusted for the darkness. ![]() Limit your light pollution when out enjoying the night sky. In addition to traveling responsibly, remember to stargaze responsibly. While seeing the aurora is a bucket list activity, don’t put your own life (or others) at risk just to see them – you can always plan a trip to Alaska next year! Whatever way you choose to try and see the aurora this week, please keep in mind that travel carries additional risks right now due to the ongoing spread of the omicron variant of Covid-19. Typically aurora visibility is best around midnight local time, since it’s when that part of the globe is roughly opposite from the sun – thus making the skies their darkest.Ĭonsider this training so you can stay up ‘til the bell drops on New Year’s Eve later this week. If you want to try and see the aurora in the next few nights, plan for them to be late ones. The aurora are wily while scientists know a lot about what causes the northern lights, they don’t have an exact way to predict the timing of when they occur or how bright they’ll appear, even on nights of strong activity. Open fields (without lit buildings or other lights) are also a good contender. If you can find a lake or other body of water to look out across to the north, this is a great option. This means you need to find a location where there are no trees, mountains, or other obstructions to the north. From the continental U.S., the aurora are only visible low above the northern horizon. (Photo by Alex Kormann/Star Tribune via Getty Images) Star Tribune via Getty ImagesĪs mentioned, you also need a view to the north. The KP index was high in the early morning hours of Saturday Septemwhich meant the aurora borealis aka "the Northern lights" were visible from Northern Minnesota. Wolf Lake in the Cloquet State Forest in Minnesota around midnight on Saturday morning. 28: The aurora borealis could be seen on the North horizon in the night sky over. Snow reflects light, adding an extra layer of complexity. This means if you live near a city or town, you’ve gotta get away from the bright city lights.Īdditionally, if it has snowed in your area lately, you may need to travel even further (1-2 hours) from the city to escape light pollution. ![]() If you’re trying to view the aurora from the continental U.S., you need to escape any light pollution, as it will likely obscure the aurora that is visible (which will be faint and only visible near the northern horizon). (If you happen to be visiting other countries know for the aurora, like Iceland, Norway, Sweden, or Finland, you’re in for a real treat!) Find a Dark Sky Location But remember: in most of these states, the aurora will only be visible in the northern parts of the state. Other states where you might see the aurora this week include Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Obviously, this makes it a great time to visit Alaska – if you already have a trip planned, that is, as most places book out several months in advance. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |