The Northern Lights have been putting on dazzling displays across the U.S. recently, due to increased solar activity from Solar Cycle 25. This cycle, which occurs every 11 years, began in December 2019 and is expected to reach its peak in July 2025. The increased sunspots from this cycle have resulted in more geomagnetic storms, leading to more opportunities to see the Northern Lights in the coming years.
To catch the best views of the Northern Lights, it is recommended to watch between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, as well as travel closer to the poles, away from city lights. Monitoring weather forecasts for prime viewing conditions and finding a vantage point like a hilltop can also enhance the viewing experience. With the unpredictability of when the geomagnetic storms will occur, being prepared and staying informed is key to catching glimpses of the spectacular light show.
The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, are shafts of colored light visible in the night sky. They are created when energized particles from the sun’s solar storms collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, with some particles being caught in the Earth’s magnetic field and redirected to the poles. When these lights occur at the south pole, they are referred to as aurora australis.
Recently, Earth has experienced a historic geomagnetic storm, leading to stunning displays of the Northern Lights in states such as New York, Vermont, Idaho, Maine, and Washington. These phenomena are more common during the solar maximum, associated with increased sunspots and solar flares. Region 3664, a massive sunspot, has been identified as the cause of the recent geomagnetic storms.
As the solar activity from Solar Cycle 25 continues to ramp up, there may be more chances to see the Northern Lights in the coming years leading up to the peak in 2025. While the exact timing of these geomagnetic storms is difficult to predict, staying informed and prepared can lead to incredible opportunities to witness the beauty of the Northern Lights. With the right conditions and timing, viewers can be treated to a spectacular celestial display that is truly a sight to behold.
