A massive geomagnetic storm in May 2024 led to spectacular auroras in the night sky, visible from San Francisco to Tasmania. The storm was caused by Earth-directed coronal mass ejections, which were expected to persist over the weekend. Geomagnetic storms, while usually harmless, can disrupt radio communications and satellite systems. In extreme cases, they can also lead to power outages and affect infrastructure on Earth’s surface and in near-Earth orbit. However, most people are unlikely to be affected by the storm, with wireless networks and mobile carriers equipped to handle disruptions.
During geomagnetic storms, the plasma carried by the storm creates stunning auroras in the night sky, illuminating it with vibrant colors. These auroras can be particularly intense during the most active phases of the storm, providing a unique opportunity for stargazing. The storms also offer a chance to see auroras further south than usual, with the potential for sightings as far as Alabama and Northern California. NOAA has developed tools to help people track and predict aurora activity, including viewlines and a 30-minute forecast.
While auroras can be spectacular, seeing them can require patience and luck. Bill Murtagh, program coordinator at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, compared hunting for auroras to fishing, with both activities needing the perfect conditions for success. City dwellers may face challenges due to light pollution, which dims the night sky and hinders stargazing. Traveling to rural areas with clear skies can improve visibility, but unpredictable weather conditions can still make aurora sightings difficult to predict.
Some people travel to Alaska or northern countries to increase their chances of seeing an aurora, with popular viewing spots including Anchorage, Fairbanks, Yukon, Helsinki, and northern Scandinavia. Tour operators now offer aurora hunting trips, organizing tours around the possibility of witnessing this natural phenomenon. Despite the challenges of predicting auroras, the allure of seeing these mesmerizing displays in the night sky continues to attract people from around the world.
