Don’t have plans tonight? We got you!
The northern lights are expected to color the night sky on Wednesday, July 30, and be visible from selected areas across the United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s forecast.
Also known as the aurora borealis, the astronomical event has a reported three on the Kp index that ranges from zero to nine. Per the scale, which measures geomagnetic activity and its intensity, the display can be “quite pleasing to look at” under perfect conditions.
While northern lights are always visible from the United States, they’ve popped up quite often in recent months. This stretch of auroras, though, is expected to be visible for a limited number of states in comparison to past forecasts.
Regardless, the visibility of this spectacular scene is largely in the hands of Mother Nature. Therefore, despite the Kp index levels and predicted locations expected to catch a glimpse, skywatchers still must factor in weather patterns that could hinder views.
Should weather conditions align, though, the northern lights are quite easy to spot from Earth! No advanced technology is needed — simply, the naked eye can soak in the beautiful display of colors that dance across the night sky.
Now, read on for a complete guide on how to watch the northern lights tonight!
When will the northern lights be visible?
Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty
Northern lights
The northern lights are predicted to be visible from various parts of the United States on Wednesday, July 30, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s forecast.
The auroras have a three on the Kp index, which ranges from zero to nine on its scale. This means the northern lights will move further from the poles and can be “quite pleasing to look at” depending on the night’s weather patterns.
The best time to spot the northern lights is in the immediate hours before and after midnight, per NOAA, specifically between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Note, it’s impossible to view them during daylight hours — so darkest is best!
Where will the northern lights be visible?
The northern lights are expected to be visible in the northernmost parts of the United States, according to NOAA’s aurora forecast.
Areas include Alaska, the northeastern tip of Washington, northern Idaho, northern Montana, most of North Dakota, Minnesota and northern Wisconsin.
How to watch the northern lights?
Hasan Akbas /Anadolu via Getty
Northern lights
If viewing from the aforementioned areas in the northern United States, you’ll have the best chances of catching a glimpse of the colorful display.
It’s important that you watch the spectacle from the darkest location, so it’s best if you situate yourself far away from light pollution. City lights, for example, can drown out the colors in the sky.
Skywatchers also must hope that Mother Nature works in their favor. This means, cross your fingers for no rain or fog that could hinder the view from Earth.
How to take photos of the northern lights?
Since the northern lights don’t happen often, obviously you have to take a photo while they’re here — and fortunately, with today’s technology, you can!
Certain smartphones have the capability to capture the auroras with a simple tap of a button. All users have to do is toggle on the “Night Mode” settings on the device. Then, point your lens to the sky and snap away!
Read the original article on People
