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By Dan Cody
Digital Media Reporter
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Skywatchers are set to be dazzled by the northern lights over the coming hours, as a geomagnetic storm builds.
A rare combination of solar activity and optimal conditions will make the aurora borealis visible in several states.
Here's what to know about this breathtaking celestial event and how to experience it for yourself.
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Where Will the Northern Lights Be Visible?
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), solar radiation storms are expected to occur, which increase the chances of seeing the northern lights across northern states in the U.S. from January 24 to 26.
The best opportunities for viewing the northern lights are expected in northern U.S. states including Michigan and Maine. They might extend as far north as northern Nebraska.
What Are the Northern Lights?
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, form when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth's atmosphere. These particles excite gases like oxygen and nitrogen, releasing energy in the form of colorful light. The result is a mesmerizing display of greens, reds, purples and blues that ripple across the night sky in dynamic spirals and arcs.
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The strength and reach of the auroras depend on solar activity, which occurs in 11-year cycles. Right now, we are nearing the solar maximum, predicted for July 2025, which intensifies auroral activity and makes the lights more vibrant and frequent, according to the NOAA.
How Can You See the Northern Lights?
Checking an aurora forecast is the first step to catching this natural wonder. Real-time tools such as NOAA's Aurora Dashboard can provide accurate predictions of when and where the lights will be visible. These resources highlight activity levels and geomagnetic conditions to help you plan your outing.
Finding the perfect viewing spot is crucial.
To see the aurora, NOAA recommends finding a high vantage point away from city lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, when activity is typically strongest.
Dress in layers, bring insulated gloves and pack hand warmers to stay comfortable during long hours outdoors.
For those eager to photograph the event, smartphones equipped with night mode or DSLRs with wide-angle lenses and long exposure settings can capture the beauty of the aurora even better than the human eye.
How Often Do the Northern Lights Appear?
Auroras are a frequent occurrence near the Arctic Circle, where Earth's magnetic field funnels solar particles. Their visibility farther south depends on the intensity of solar storms.
During periods of strong geomagnetic activity, the auroras can extend into lower latitudes, as seen during the May 2024 geomagnetic storm, which produced displays as far south as Texas and Florida.
The NOAA Aurora Tutorial states: "During the 4-5 years near solar maximum, there are more solar active regions, larger solar flares, and larger and faster CMEs."
These conditions lead to "the aurora becoming brighter, more active, and moving further from the poles," which explains why auroras may be visible at lower latitudes during this period.
With the current solar cycle ramping up, auroras will likely remain a prominent feature of the night sky into 2026.
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