This weekend, a spectacular display of the aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, will be visible in the night sky over the northern United States and much of Canada.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that the best viewing times will be just after sunset or just before sunrise on Saturday and Sunday nights, with the northern US and Canada offering the best vantage points.
Aurora Borealis Sighting
The aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon caused by high-energy space particles colliding with atoms of gas in the Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in brilliant splashes of green, purple, and pink light.
According to NASA, this display of lights is a result of space weather, where energized particles from space interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, producing the dazzling effect.
The geomagnetic storm responsible for this aurora is expected to be at its strongest on Saturday night, providing onlookers with their best chance to witness the spectacle.
Viewing Opportunities
For many Americans, this event is a rare opportunity to witness the aurora borealis, which is typically visible in the Earth’s northernmost latitudes, such as Alaska, Russia, and Norway.
The NOAA notes that catching these lights can be a unique experience, and for some, it may be worth traveling to arctic regions to observe, as it is a direct way to experience space weather.
