Get Ready to Chase the Northern Lights: A Weekend of Aurora Borealis Activity
As the weekend approaches, a small group of states along the northern U.S. border is in for a treat – a minor showing of auroral activity is expected to increase, providing a rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the northern lights. In this post, we’ll dive into the details of the forecast, trends, and tips to help you make the most of this celestial spectacle.
The Forecast: A Minor Showing of Aurora Borealis
According to NOAA’s northern lights forecast, Saturday night is expected to see a Kp index of three, which means the aurora will move further from the poles and produce more movement and formations. The viewing line stretches as low as the border between North Dakota and South Dakota, with chances of seeing aurora borealis increasing the farther north of the line you are located.
The Best Viewing Areas
The states within Saturday’s viewing line include the northern tip of Idaho, the northeastern half of Montana, North Dakota, the northern half of Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and Michigan’s upper peninsula. While the chances of seeing the lights are low, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota have the best chances.
Tips for Viewing and Capturing the Northern Lights
To increase your visibility, observe from places with high vantage points, little to no light pollution, and clear skies. The best viewing hours are between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Night mode and low shutter speeds on smartphones can help observers with capturing the northern lights through photos, as well as the use of tripods for image stability. Traditional cameras should use high ISO values, wide apertures, and wide-angle lenses to snap photos of the northern lights.
The Science Behind the Northern Lights
Aurora borealis is created through solar flares and coronal mass ejections, types of solar events that interact with oxygen and nitrogen molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere. Electrons interact with the molecules and become “excited” before producing the auroral phenomenon. Northern lights activity hit a peak last year as the sun’s surface reached a “solar maximum.” The activity of the natural phenomenon has been consistent in 2025 and could last into next year, according to NASA.
Actionable Insights
If you’re planning to chase the northern lights this weekend, here are some actionable insights to keep in mind:
- Check the forecast regularly for updates on the viewing line and Kp index.
- Plan your viewing location strategically, taking into account the viewing line and areas with minimal light pollution.
- Bring a tripod and camera with high ISO values, wide apertures, and wide-angle lenses to capture stunning photos.
- Dress warmly and be prepared for a late-night adventure.
Conclusion
This weekend, a small group of states along the northern U.S. border will have a rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the northern lights. With a minor showing of auroral activity expected to increase, it’s essential to be prepared and strategic in your viewing location. By following the tips and insights outlined in this post, you’ll be well-equipped to capture the magic of the northern lights. So, grab your camera and get ready to chase the aurora borealis!