The northern lights forecast is bringing excitement to skywatchers across the United States this week, as a minor geomagnetic storm is expected to trigger a dazzling display of the aurora borealis. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, auroras may be visible in more than a dozen states on Monday night, offering a rare chance for millions of Americans to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles.
Where to See the Northern Lights Tonight
The latest aurora borealis forecast suggests that people in northern states, including Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, could have clear views of the glowing skies. Some regions further north may even experience additional light shows on Tuesday night.
This display comes at an ideal time, as the moon is set to rise in the early morning hours, leaving darker skies during peak viewing times. With reduced light interference, streaks of green, pink, and purple may appear more vibrant than usual.
For those planning to watch, NOAA recommends heading away from urban areas and into locations with minimal light pollution. The best window for viewing will be between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. local time.
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, occur when solar particles from a coronal mass ejection or solar flare collide with atoms and molecules in Earth’s upper atmosphere. These interactions cause the gases to glow, creating shimmering curtains of color that ripple across the night sky.
This week’s northern lights forecast is linked to heightened solar activity as the sun approaches its “solar maximum” phase—a peak in its 11-year cycle when sunspot activity and geomagnetic storms increase. NASA notes that this period of solar intensity will continue through at least 2026, meaning more frequent opportunities to see the aurora are expected over the next two years.
Capturing the Aurora Borealis
While the naked eye offers the most authentic experience, today’s technology gives skywatchers another advantage. Smartphones and digital cameras are often capable of capturing auroras even when they appear faint in person, thanks to their enhanced sensitivity to light and color. NASA also points enthusiasts to platforms like Aurorasaurus, where users can receive real-time alerts based on sightings reported by other observers.
Why This Forecast Matters
This week’s aurora borealis forecast is particularly exciting because opportunities to see the northern lights in the U.S. often depend on extreme space weather events. Most displays are confined to higher latitudes like Alaska or Canada, but this forecast brings the aurora well into the northern U.S., providing a rare opportunity for stargazers and photographers alike.
The last year has already seen a surge in aurora activity thanks to stronger solar storms, and experts believe that frequency will only grow as the solar cycle continues. For many, this makes 2025 one of the best years in decades to witness the aurora borealis without leaving the United States.
Final Tips for Skywatchers
- Check your local forecast: Clear skies are essential for viewing. Even the strongest auroras are invisible behind thick cloud cover.
- Seek out darkness: Rural areas, lakeshores, and mountains far from city lights provide the best experience.
- Stay patient: Auroras can come and go quickly, so give yourself several hours to watch the skies.
Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity
If you live in one of the states within the northern lights forecast, tonight may be your chance to witness the aurora borealis at its most vibrant. Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or simply someone who enjoys stargazing, this natural light show promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
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