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The northern lights, or aurora borealis, may captivate viewers across various northern states in the U.S. this weekend. Following a significant solar eruption earlier in the week, conditions are favorable for the display of this natural phenomenon, provided the weather cooperates.
This solar event, known as a coronal mass ejection, has led the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) in Colorado to issue a geomagnetic storm watch for Friday through Sunday. The watch serves as a warning to the public about possible disturbances that could affect navigation, power systems, and radio communications.
Timing for Viewing the Northern Lights
The best opportunity to view the aurora will be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, although it can also be seen just after sunset and before dawn. For optimal viewing, it is advisable to find a location away from urban light pollution, as noted by the SWPC, which suggests checking conditions at their site.
Typically, the spring and fall equinoxes are prime times for aurora sightings, with the fall equinox having just occurred on September 22.
Geographic Range of Visibility
The aurora may be visible as far south as Iowa, Oregon, and Pennsylvania, according to SWPC forecasts. In optimal conditions, the lights can potentially be seen from up to 620 miles away from the northern horizon.
Mapping the Northern Lights
The SWPC has provided a forecast map illustrating the expected intensity of the northern lights across North America for Friday night. This map delineates the southern reach of the aurora borealis on the horizon.
Similarly, a forecast for Saturday night has also been released, detailing the anticipated conditions for aurora visibility.
Comparative Storm Strengths
Last spring, parts of the U.S. witnessed a spectacular display of the northern lights during a powerful geomagnetic storm. While this upcoming weekend’s storm is categorized as strong, experts indicate it is unlikely to reach the intensity observed in May.
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