The Northern Lights are set to make an appearance in several continental U.S. states on Friday night due to powerful solar flares causing geomagnetic storms. These solar flares are a result of the sun’s increased activity as it approaches its peak in Solar Cycle 25, expected between late 2024 and early 2026.
Solar flares like the X7.1 and X9.0 released by the sun can lead to coronal mass ejections which result in Northern Lights sightings. The recent increase in solar activity has led to an uptick in geomagnetic storm watches, with Friday night’s aurora expected to be quite a spectacle with a Kp index of five.
To catch the best view of the Northern Lights, heading to locations near the poles with minimal light pollution is key. The lights are most active between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., making it the ideal time for viewing and photographing the aurora.
Solar Cycle 25 has been marked by an increase in sunspot activity, with August seeing the highest monthly sunspot number since 2003. As the sun continues to ramp up its activity, more geomagnetic storms leading to breathtaking displays of the Northern Lights can be expected in the coming years.
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