> At a Glance
> – Fast solar winds plus incoming CMEs could spark G1 geomagnetic storms Jan 9-10
> – NOAA forecasts a Kp index of 4.67 between 9 p.m. Friday and midnight Saturday
> – Ten northern-tier U.S. states have a shot at seeing the northern lights
> – Why it matters: Clear skies could deliver weekend aurora displays as far south as Maine and Washington
Geomagnetic activity is ramping up again, and weekend stargazers across the northern U.S. might catch shimmering ribbons of green and purple rippling overhead.
What’s Happening
A high-speed solar-wind stream that peaked above 700 km/s earlier this week is now being joined by a series of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) heading toward Earth. The combined punch is expected to push storm levels to the minor (G1) category on Friday and Saturday nights.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center says the best window for aurora sightings falls between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, when the planetary Kp index is forecast to reach 4.67.
Where to Look
According to the agency’s updated aurora forecast map, the following states sit above the view line:
- Friday, Jan. 9: Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan
- Saturday, Jan. 10: Washington, South Dakota, Maine join the list
Success still hinges on dark, cloud-free skies and a vantage point facing north, away from city lights.
Quick Photo Tips
- Phone users: enable Night Mode and steady the camera on a solid surface
- Camera users: mount on a tripod, switch to manual, and expose for 10-25 seconds at high ISO
- Check NOAA’s 30-minute aurora dashboard for real-time updates before heading out
Key Takeaways
- G1 geomagnetic storm watch is active Jan 9-10
- Peak activity expected 9 p.m. Friday to midnight Saturday (Kp 4.67)
- Ten U.S. states have a realistic chance of aurora sightings if skies stay clear
Bundle up, be patient, and keep an eye on the northern horizon-the lights have a habit of appearing when you least expect them.
