Get ready for a spectacular light show! The sun is reaching its solar maximum stage, and with it comes an increase in northern lights activity. This phenomenon, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can be seen stretching from the Arctic Circle to as far south as Arizona, Mississippi, and Texas.
But how do the northern lights work? It’s simple: when atoms and molecules in Earth’s atmosphere clash with a solar flare, they glow, creating a colorful display in the night sky. This happens every 11 years, when the sun’s magnetic field reaches its highest point, causing an increase in solar flares.
Right now, we’re approaching the peak of Solar Cycle 25, which is expected to reach its maximum between November 2024 and March 2026. This means more intense geomagnetic storms are possible throughout 2024, making it a great time for stargazers to get out and enjoy the show!
The northern lights can be seen in the northernmost states like Maine and Alaska, where they’re typically most vibrant. But if you’re further south, don’t worry – you can still spot them! Just head away from city lights and find a dark spot to gaze at the night sky.
Remember, predicting when an Aurora Borealis will occur is notoriously tricky, but researchers use satellites to track solar wind speed and density to forecast favorable conditions. On Thursday, for example, the northern lights may be visible in Alaska from Fairbanks to Unalakleet, Talkeetna, and Tok.
And while the northern lights are a breathtaking sight, it’s worth noting that intense geomagnetic storms can disrupt navigation systems and electrical power networks by bombarding Earth with subatomic particles. But don’t worry – just enjoy the show!
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/peak-northern-lights-activity-occur/story?id=113839425