What is the aurora?
The aurora (aurora borealis in the north, aurora australis in the south) is a natural light display caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.
When is the best time to see the aurora?
The best viewing times are during the winter months (September-March in the Northern Hemisphere) between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. However, strong geomagnetic storms can produce auroras at any time of year.
Where can I see the aurora?
Auroras are typically visible at high latitudes (above 60° north or below 60° south). Popular viewing locations include Alaska, northern Canada, Iceland, Norway, and Antarctica.
What is the Kp index?
The Kp index is a measure of geomagnetic activity on a scale of 0-9. Higher values indicate stronger aurora displays that can be seen at lower latitudes. A Kp of 5 or higher indicates active auroral conditions.
How accurate are aurora forecasts?
Aurora forecasts are based on real-time solar wind and geomagnetic data. Short-term forecasts (30 minutes to a few hours) are generally accurate, while longer-term forecasts become less precise. Weather conditions can also affect visibility.
Can I photograph the aurora with my phone?
Yes! Modern smartphones can capture auroras using night mode or manual camera settings. Check out our guide on photographing the aurora with an iPhone.