Get ready for a magical show in the sky! This Sunday, the northern lights, or aurora borealis, might be visible in many northern U.S. states. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that the lights will be brighter than usual due to a Kp index of five, which means they will reach further from the poles.
On Sunday night, the best visibility will be in Alaska, but states like Minnesota and North Dakota will have excellent views too. Other states like Montana, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are also in the range where you might catch a glimpse of these stunning lights. If you’re in northern parts of Idaho, Washington, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Iowa, or Wyoming, you could be lucky enough to see the auroras as well.
If you want to experience this natural wonder, the ideal time to watch is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Find a quiet spot away from city lights with a clear view to the north. Being on higher ground, like a hill, can also improve your chances of spotting the lights.
For those interested in capturing the moment, here are a few tips for taking great photos of the northern lights. Use a tripod to keep your camera steady, and a wide-angle lens can help capture more of the sky. Set your camera for low light conditions, using an aperture of f/4 or lower. If you’re using a smartphone, stabilize it on a tripod, turn off the flash, and use night mode if possible to get the best shots.
This spectacular display has been more visible recently, reaching a notable peak. According to NASA, we are experiencing a 500-year high in aurora activity, which is expected to last until 2025 or 2026. Increased solar activity, linked to a solar maximum in the sun’s 11-year cycle, has led to more frequent and vibrant auroras.
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