Topline
The northern lights could be visible from some northern states on Monday night, according to a forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, though experts are not expecting any space weather events that typically make the aurora brighter.
A forecast from NOAA shows where the aurora could be spotted on Monday night.
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Key Facts
NOAA predicted a Kp index of four out of nine on Monday night, meaning the northern lights could be visible from some parts of the northern contiguous U.S., appearing brighter and with more “motion and formations” than usual.
Forecasters did not predict any ongoing space weather for Monday that could influence the Kp index and cause the lights to appear brighter.
Where Could the Northern Lights Be Visible?
Places shown with a chance in NOAA’s forecast include North Dakota, parts of northern Washington, northern Idaho, northern Montana, northern South Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The aurora could be visible from Alaska, with NOAA’s forecast showing a high chance for much of the state’s interior. However, the sun sets extremely late during the summer in Alaska, meaning it may not get dark enough for viewers to catch a glimpse of the lights from parts of the state.
NOAA’s forecast map for Monday.
NOAA
What’s the Best Way to View the Northern Lights?
Experts at NOAA suggest viewers should travel generally as far north as possible, toward Earth’s magnetic north pole located in northern Canada. They should also try to pick a location far from cities or other sources of bright light, and find a vantage point like a hill with a clear view of the sky. They should also wait until it is dark outside, ideally around the time the aurora is typically most active: between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
What’s the Best Way to Photograph the Northern Lights?
An aurora photographer who spoke to National Geographic offered tips for novices trying to take photos of the phenomenon, including would-be photographers who only have access to a smartphone camera. Smartphone users should turn on their device’s night mode, turn off flash, and shoot in RAW image format. They should also bring equipment to ensure their device is stable and stationary for a long enough amount of time to capture enough light—experts typically recommend a tripod and a remote timer.