Aurora enthusiasts have a wonderful reason to celebrate as a solar storm is set to illuminate the Northern Hemisphere with the stunning northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, on Thanksgiving and Black Friday. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this celestial spectacle can be spotted across parts of the northern United States.
This vibrant display, characterized by greenish and reddish hues, is expected due to a coronal mass ejection (CME) hurtling towards Earth, prompting NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center to issue a geomagnetic storm watch for these two days. While the storm poses minimal risk to satellites, GPS signals, and power grids, it promises an exciting celestial show for those seeking entertainment after Thanksgiving festivities like football and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Forecasters note that this solar storm, categorized on a five-level scale, will reach a minor G1 intensity on Thursday and a moderate G2 intensity on Friday. Although it won’t match the strength of the G4 storm witnessed in October, it is still expected to expand the visibility of the auroras further from the poles than usual.
The northern lights are typically best observed near the magnetic poles, but this storm’s Kp index of 5 suggests that the auroras may also be bright enough to be seen beyond their typical regions, stretching across northern states from New York to Idaho. Recommended locations for viewing include Boise, ID; Cheyenne, WY; Lincoln, NE; Indianapolis; and Annapolis, MD. Conditions such as local weather, light pollution, and the general sky visibility will also play significant roles in witnessing this enchanting sight.
For those hoping to catch the northern lights, NOAA advises that the best time to view them is usually within one or two hours of midnight, particularly when the weather is clear. Travelers should venture away from urban light pollution to maximize their experience. NOAA has created an “aurora dashboard” to help skygazers track the phenomenon and seize the opportunity when the lights appear.
The northern lights arise when charged particles from space collide with Earth’s atmospheric gases, such as oxygen and nitrogen. These particles gain energy, and as they return to their normal state, they release that energy in the form of light. The stunning array of colors, from greens to reds to even pinks, is influenced by the altitude of the collisions and the atmospheric conditions at the time.
The current wave of solar activity, part of the sun’s 11-year cycle, has led to an increased likelihood of northern lights. With sunspots becoming more frequent and capable of producing solar flares and CMEs, conditions are ripe for geomagnetic storms, enhancing the probability of witnessing auroras even in areas that seldom see them. Enthusiasts can expect more opportunities for northern lights sightings as NASA anticipates this solar maximum phase to continue into 2025.
In summary, this Thanksgiving offers a unique chance to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. As people gather to celebrate, they may also be treated to a spectacular show in the night sky, creating even more memorable moments during the holiday season.
The upcoming display of auroras serves as a reminder of nature’s beauty and the wonders of our universe, fostering hope and excitement for many.