close
close

Due to the solar flare, there may be a rare chance to see the Northern Lights this weekend

Due to the solar flare, there may be a rare chance to see the Northern Lights this weekend

After a recent solar flare, residents of some northern US states may be able to see the stunning Northern Lights this weekend.

On Thursday, the sun emitted the most powerful solar flare in seven years with a magnitude of X9.0, FOX Weather reported. An X-Flare is the most intense and the number indicates its strength.

The X9.0 is the strongest outbreak in solar cycle 25, which is unusual as a geomagnetic storm warning is issued until Sunday.

THE ALABAMA STORE IS A HOT LOCATION FOR TOURISTS LOOKING FOR TRAVELERS' LOST PERSONAL BELONGINGS

A spokesperson for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration told Fox News Digital via email that the U.S. is facing a Solar Cycle 25 solar maximum.

Northern lights

On Thursday, the sun emitted the most powerful solar flare in seven years with a magnitude of X9.0 (Ross Harried/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“Solar cycles are an average of 11 years during which the sun goes from a minimum of activity to a maximum and back to a minimum again. This happens because of the magnetic turbulence that occurs when the sun flips its magnetic poles about every 11 years,” the spokesman said.

In certain states, stargazers may have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights.

For more lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

Night sky and silhouette of a family

A spokesperson for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration told Fox News Digital via email that we are in control of a Solar Cycle 25 maximum. (iStock)

“Under the best of circumstances, it may be possible for the more northerly plains of the Northeast to see the auroras on the northern horizon well beyond city lights and under clear skies.”

“Although it is difficult to say how large the aurora extent during geomagnetic storms might actually be – in general, the upper end of the G3 (geomagnetic storm) level could allow residents of northern New York to see the auroras,” the said Speaker.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TO OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

If viewers cannot visibly see the Northern Lights, they may be able to capture a faint glow with the right digital camera equipment, such as cell phones or DSLRs.

Northern lights

The best time to try to capture the Northern Lights is usually a few hours after midnight. (Ross Harried/NurPhoto via Getty Images, iStock)

Tips for Northern Lights sightings

If you want to see the magical dancing lights in the sky, there are a few factors you should consider to maximize your viewing pleasure.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Location: Try to find a location where there are few lines of trees or hills so that the northern horizon is fully visible.

Timing: The best time to try to capture the Northern Lights is usually a few hours after midnight.

Geomagnetic activity: The Space Weather Prediction Center website allows users to view a short-term forecast of the location and intensity of the aurora to determine whether it can be observed in your area.

Darkness: To see the Northern Lights, find the darkest place you can find.

Fox News Digital's Sydney Borchers contributed to this report.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *