Topline Insight
This **Friday** could present an **exciting opportunity** for sky gazers in several northern U.S. states to witness the mesmerizing **Northern Lights**! Thanks to a rich forecast from the **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)**, the stunning aurora borealis may even stretch beyond its usual realms.
Forecasters predict that **auroral activity** may escalate throughout the night, potentially illuminating skies in more states.
Key Facts About the Aurora
Experts from NOAA have issued a **Kp index forecast** of three on a scale of nine for Friday night, indicating that the **Northern Lights** may be more vibrant outside polar regions, offering stunning displays in many areas.
The Kp index could rise to **four** on Friday, which suggests increased chances of seeing the aurora borealis even in places like **South Dakota** and **Maine**. For further details, check NOAA’s three-day forecast.
Be ready for a lull! NOAA emphasizes that auroral activity is expected to calm over the weekend, with a maximum Kp index of around **two** for Friday and Saturday. This may limit visibility primarily to parts of **northern Canada** and **Alaska**.
Where to Catch a Glimpse
The **best chances** to catch the northern lights will be across **Canada** and **Alaska**, while regions just below the Canadian border might experience occasional sightings. If you’re located in **northeastern Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota**, or **Upper Michigan**, you might also have a shot at viewing this spectacular phenomenon. Check out the map below for visibility lines!
Visibility map for Friday’s aurora.
Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights
NOAA recommends finding a **high vantage point** facing north, away from city lights, between **10 p.m. and 2 a.m.** local time for the best viewing experience. It’s your chance to witness nature’s dazzling light show firsthand!
Photography Tips for Capturing Aurora Magic
Want to immortalize your experience? Photography experts at National Geographic recommend using a **wide-angle lens**, setting your aperture to **four** or less, adjusting focus to the furthest setting, and using a **tripod** for stability. Smartphone enthusiasts? Activate **night mode** and turn off the flash for optimal results!
Understanding the Science Behind the Aurora
The northern lights are expected to become increasingly visible across the U.S. following a significant **“solar maximum”** event in October 2024, as noted by NOAA and **NASA**. During an **11-year solar cycle**, peaks of activity lead to spectacular celestial events like coronal mass ejections and solar flares. These phenomena cause electrons to collide with Earth’s atmospheric gases, producing those stunning light displays. This peak experience is projected to continue into early **2026**, as detailed by NOAA.
