Aurora chasers have an exciting reason to celebrate this Thanksgiving as a solar storm is set to bring vibrant northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, to parts of the Northern Hemisphere. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has stated that this dazzling light display will be particularly visible across the northern United States during Thanksgiving and Black Friday.
The colorful spectacle is a result of a coronal mass ejection from the sun that is heading towards Earth. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a geomagnetic storm watch for Thursday and Friday as the storm is expected to initiate heightened geomagnetic activity. Although the storm poses a minimal threat to satellites, GPS systems, and power grids, it promises to add a festive touch to the holiday atmosphere once the day’s main events, like football and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, have wrapped up.
This geomagnetic activity, rated at a minor G1 intensity on Thursday and a moderate G2 on Friday, is expected to extend the visibility of the auroras further from the poles than usual. Traditionally, northern lights are best viewed near the magnetic poles, particularly in places like Alaska. However, due to the incoming solar storm, observers may catch a glimpse of the lights in northern states ranging from New York to Idaho. Some cities that could enjoy the view include Boise, Idaho, Cheyenne, Wyoming, Lincoln, Nebraska, Indianapolis, and Annapolis, Maryland.
For those eager to witness this natural phenomenon, the ideal time to see the northern lights is generally within an hour or two of midnight, provided the weather is clear. Experts recommend escaping light pollution by finding darker locations for optimal viewing. NOAA has also created an aurora dashboard to assist skywatchers in tracking auroral activity.
The northern lights create their stunning displays when charged particles from solar eruptions penetrate Earth’s atmosphere and collide with atmospheric gases. This interaction releases energy in the form of light, resulting in beautiful hues that vary depending on factors like altitude and the atmospheric composition.
Currently, solar activity is peaking in an 11-year cycle, which has led to an increase in auroral displays. With increased sunspots capable of triggering solar flares, the chances of experiencing northern lights remain high. NASA forecasts that this solar maximum will continue until 2025, providing ample opportunities for aurora enthusiasts to enjoy these spectacular celestial events.
This forecast not only adds excitement to the Thanksgiving festivities but also highlights the beauty of nature’s wonders, encouraging people to step outside, appreciate their surroundings, and maybe even create new holiday traditions centered around stargazing.