Geomagnetic storm could make northern lights visible in Illinois. When to look
A moderate to strong geomagnetic storm is expected soon, and if it intensifies, the northern lights could be visible from Illinois.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says G2 “moderate” to G3 “strong” geomagnetic storm conditions are expected Thursday into Friday, waning to G1 “minor” conditions by late Friday.
G3 conditions would be needed for Illinoisans to have a chance to see the northern lights. Here’s an overview on how NOAA breaks down the geomagnetic storm ratings and their potential effects:
- G3, strong: Aurora has been seen as far south as Illinois and Oregon. Intermittent satellite navigation and low-frequency radio navigation issues may occur.
- G2, moderate: Aurora has been seen as low as New York and Idaho. Long-duration storms may cause transformer damage.
- G1, minor: Aurora is commonly visible at higher latitudes, such as in Maine and northern Michigan. Weak power grid fluctuations can occur.
The latest NOAA forecast calls for a maximum of G3 storm conditions, but there are also ratings for G4 “severe” and G5 “extreme” geomagnetic storms. A G4 storm can cause possible widespread voltage control problems and a G5 storm can cause significant radio disruptions, widespread voltage control problems and more.
Aurora borealis, or northern lights, is one manifestation of geomagnetic activity.
“As the solar wind increases in speed and the interplanetary magnetic field embedded in the solar wind turns southward, the geomagnetic activity will increase and the aurora will become brighter, more active, and move further from the poles,” NOAA says. “Even moderate solar wind creates aurora so there is usually a weak aurora somewhere even when there isn’t a big geomagnetic storm.”
Space.com reports the best time to look for the northern lights will be after dark Thursday into the early hours Friday.
How to see the northern lights from Illinois
It isn’t guaranteed aurora will be visible from Illinois, but if it is, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of seeing it. Here’s what to do, according to astronomy publication Space.com:
- Keep up to date on the aurora forecast. NOAA regularly updates its geomagnetic storm forecasts.
- Find dark skies away from city lights.
- Look north.
- Be patient; it can take time to catch a glimpse.
- Use a camera. Long exposures can help you capture faint auroras that may not be visible to the naked eye.
NASA scientists recommend picking a viewing location ahead of time.
“Strong auroras can be seen even in big cities, but the best views will be in areas with little or no light pollution,” NASA’s website says.
If you’re trying to take pictures of the Northern Lights with your smartphone, NASA recommends using “night mode” if your phone has it, and using a tripod or otherwise stabilizing your phone for the shot.
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