The sun’s 11-year solar cycle is nearing its peak, and this increased electromagnetic activity could lead to more frequent celestial events like the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. According to experts, a stronger solar maximum in 2025 may cause more instances of the northern lights throughout the year.
The sun has several sunspots that can produce solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which are responsible for the northern lights. In 2024, Iowa witnessed the northern lights twice, with an amplified event in October that prompted a rare geomagnetic storm watch. Experts predict that 2025 will be even more intense, with a stronger solar maximum than the last one in 2014.
Iowans can expect to see the northern lights in areas with minimal light pollution and clear skies. The best viewing locations are typically near magnetic poles, such as Alaska or European countries like Norway. However, predicting exactly when and where the phenomenon will occur is challenging, even for experts.
To track the northern lights, use the Space Weather Prediction Center’s aurora dashboard or Aurorasaurus’ live map. If you plan to view the northern lights in Iowa, be prepared to travel to dark locations away from cities and arrive with clear weather conditions. The best viewing times are usually within an hour or two after midnight.
As the sun reaches its peak, Iowans may witness spectacular views of the northern lights for the first time.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/sun-reaching-11-peak-does-125621381.html