The aurora borealis has returned and is anticipated to be visible throughout the weekend.

According to predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), several northern U.S. states are likely to offer the best views this weekend.

On January 20, the sun experienced a coronal mass ejection, a phenomenon responsible for generating auroras, as per NASA. This was categorized as an M5.5-class solar flare, which is of moderate intensity, and it is heading towards Earth. NOAA expects a G2-level geomagnetic storm, defined as “moderate.” Keep in mind, these forecasts may evolve as more data comes in.

Where are the best spots to witness the aurora borealis?

The northern lights should be visible this weekend in various northern states if the weather cooperates. They include: Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

On Friday night, areas in Wyoming, northern Iowa, northern New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire can anticipate a more vibrant display. The peak intensity of the solar storm is expected to occur early Saturday morning. The aurora borealis is predicted to start diminishing on Sunday evening and continue into Monday, according to NOAA’s forecast.

Earth’s magnetic field acts as a protective shield

The Earth’s magnetic field forms an invisible barrier that protects us from solar winds. This magnetic shield can be disturbed by stronger solar winds, leading to the magnificent auroras that occur when the storm’s particles interact with atmospheric gases within the magnetic field.

During exceptionally large auroral displays, the phenomena can be observed throughout the United States and Europe, though such occurrences are quite rare. A notable event in 1958 allowed the aurora to be seen as far south as Mexico City, according to the University of Alaska.

What leads to the creation of the aurora borealis?

When the sun emits solar flares, they transport plasma particles towards Earth.

When charged electrons from the sun collide with air molecules in Earth’s magnetic field, they energize the atoms. As these molecules return to their normal state, they release light. Oxygen emits green and red light, while nitrogen produces blue and purple hues.

If you miss the auroras this weekend, don’t fret! The solar maximum, which is the peak period of the sun’s 11-year activity cycle, will bring an uptick in solar weather, including more coronal mass ejections and geomagnetic storms, for several years. NASA astronomers indicate that this cycle just began in October 2024 and expect increased storm activity moving forward.

SOURCE NASA, NOAA, LiveScience, CNET.com, Space.com, and YSL News research