The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that captivates sky-watchers around the world. In this blog post, we’ll explore the recent geomagnetic storm predicted to bring the shimmering lights to the skies of the upper U.S. this week, and provide expert tips on how to maximize your chances of witnessing this mesmerizing display.
Catching the Northern Lights in the Upper Midwest
The Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a rare ‘severe’ geomagnetic storm watch for Thursday and Friday, which means the Aurora Borealis may be visible over much of the northern half of the United States, potentially as far south as Alabama and northern California. This is an incredible opportunity for sky-watchers in the Upper Midwest, especially in Minnesota, to witness the mesmerizing green and purple hues dance across the night sky.
According to experts, the sun is entering its most active period in two decades, which is the primary driver of the frequency and intensity of these captivating light shows. While the unpredictable nature of the northern lights can make them a challenge to chase, seasoned aurora enthusiasts like Matthew Vinge and Melanie Metz are offering their best tips to help first-timers and experienced sky-watchers alike increase their chances of catching a glimpse of this natural spectacle.
Timing and Location: Keys to Successful Northern Lights Viewing
The key to successfully viewing the northern lights is to time your outing just right and find a location that offers the best vantage point. The Space Weather Prediction Center provides a daily graphic that makes it easy to check current and forecasted space weather conditions, so be sure to keep a close eye on the forecast.
When it comes to location, it’s important to get as far away from light pollution as possible. Big cities and even small towns should be avoided, as the brightness can significantly diminish the visibility of the aurora. Experts recommend driving at least an hour away from the Twin Cities metro area to find the best viewing spots, with the most serious aurora chasers venturing all the way to northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – the state’s darkest and most remote areas. A clear northern view, preferably over a body of water like a lake, is ideal for optimal viewing and photography.
Maximizing Your Chances: Expert Tips for Chasing the Northern Lights
Once you’ve found the perfect location, there are a few additional tips to help maximize your chances of witnessing the northern lights. First and foremost, be patient and prepared to spend a few hours chasing the elusive lights, as they tend to ebb and flow throughout the night.
Dress warmly, bring snacks and hand warmers, and turn off any lights, including your cell phone, to allow your eyes to fully adjust to the darkness. If you plan to capture the aurora on camera, a tripod is a must-have, and set your smartphone to a long exposure of 3-10 seconds to reveal the full spectrum of colors.
Remember, even though the northern lights were visible within the light-polluted Twin Cities metro area during the last major geomagnetic storm, the show was significantly better the farther north you traveled. So, don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone and chase the lights – the rewards can be truly breathtaking.
