Wisconsinites eagerly anticipate a potential celestial spectacle: auroras in the sky. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests Northern Lights forecast on Thursday night. Heightened excitement prevails because of the recent influence of a substantial solar flare. There is an ensuing coronal mass ejection (CME). It is fostering expectations of vibrant auroras illuminating Wisconsin’s night sky.
The NOAA’s latest updates suggest that particles from the CME are expected to reach Earth’s magnetic field overnight from November 30 to December 1. This interaction could give rise to the awe-inspiring aurora borealis. However, the incoming cloudy weather might challenge skygazers.
“Cloudy skies are moving in overnight Thursday and into Friday morning, which could make it more difficult, but not impossible, to see the northern lights,” remarked National Weather Service meteorologist Benny VanCleve. He acknowledged the potential hindrance posed by weather conditions.
Despite this challenge, Wisconsinites remain hopeful of catching glimpses of the auroras. NOAA’s aurora forecast tool is updated every 30 minutes. It offers the most up-to-date predictions. Additionally, individuals can track the phenomenon via the Milwaukee Astronomical Society’s website. It allows enthusiasts to monitor the Northern Lights spectacle.
The allure of the Northern Lights has prompted tips on optimal viewing conditions from Gene Hanson, the observatory director for the Milwaukee Astronomical Society. “Head north,” advises Hanson, emphasizing the correlation between visibility and distance from the north. “Even 60 miles north can make a tremendous difference,” he adds. He underscored the importance of proximity to witness the auroras vividly.
Moreover, Hanson suggests looking towards the northern horizon for an unobstructed view. “The more north you can see, the more of the lights you could see,” he notes. He emphasized the significance of an expansive north-facing vantage point.
The impact of light pollution is another factor Hanson highlights. “Move away from the light,” he urges, advocating for rural areas with minimal light pollution. “Anywhere you can see the stars well will work, but the darker, the better,” he emphasizes. He stressed the importance of a dark sky for an optimal Northern Lights experience.
While Wisconsinites hope for a spectacle in their skies, Pennsylvania is also on the radar for potential aurora sightings. The aftermath of a solar flare on November 28 has raised the possibility of auroras gracing the skies of northern Pennsylvania. It would combine with the projected geomagnetic storm overnight.
However, visibility in Philadelphia might be unlikely due to city lights. The farther north one travels, the greater the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. According to NOAA’s predictions, a strong geomagnetic storm (G-3) forecasted Thursday night could extend the spectacle as far south as northern Pennsylvania.
Cloudy skies might impede the view, but weather permitting, Northern Lights enthusiasts might still have a chance to witness the auroras. The last powerful G-3 storm witnessed auroras visible as far south as Virginia. It indicates the potential reach of this celestial display.
The Northern Lights was named by Galileo Galilei in 1619. He named them after the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek god of wind, Boreas. It continues to captivate skywatchers, offering glimpses of nature’s mesmerizing light show.
As Wisconsinites and Pennsylvanians keep their eyes peeled for potential aurora sightings, they remain hopeful for a celestial display. It unites them under the mesmerizing allure of the Northern Lights.
