Topline
The northern lights could be visible from states along the U.S.-Canadian border again on Sunday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Key Facts
Forecasters are predicting a Kp index of four out of nine for Sunday night, meaning the northern lights could be visible further from the north pole, while appearing brighter and more active.
No geomagnetic storms are expected on Sunday night, NOAA forecasters said in their most recent three-day forecast, but the lights could still be visible at certain times of the night.
Where Could The Northern Lights Be Visible?
The aurora could be visible from states along the U.S.-Canada border, according to NOAA’s view line for Sunday night. This includes parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana, South Dakota and the entirety of North Dakota. In the Midwest, the lights could be visible from most of Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and northern Michigan. The lights could also potentially be visible from northern Maine, as well as most of Alaska.
What’s The Best Way To View The Northern Lights?
Experts at NOAA recommend aurora viewers travel north, as close to the magnetic north pole as possible. Viewers should also find a spot away from cities or other sources of bright light, and position themselves on a vantage point with a clear view of the northern sky. The lights are typically most active in the hours before and after midnight, so viewers should expect to time their trips between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Typical smartphone cameras can capture great photos of the northern lights, an expert who spoke to Forbes said. Prospective photographers should remember to turn flash off and shoot in RAW image format. A tripod can also help stabilize a smartphone to better capture the overhead sky. IPhone users should start by using the device’s standard lens and switch on Night mode, while Android users should opt for their phone’s Pro mode.
