Northern lights may be visible over Massachusetts tonight. Here's a look at the forecast map
A strong geomagnetic storm means that there is a chance you'll catch the northern lights tonight in Massachusetts tonight.
"The G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storm watch remains in effect for tonight, June 1st (EDT), as CME passage continues," the Space Weather Prediction Center said in a 2 p.m. alert on June 1. "There are indications that the coronal mass ejection (CME) passage is weakening, but the solar wind conditions remain elevated, therefore additional periods of G3-G4 (Strong-Severe) levels remain possible. However, we now anticipate that conditions should weaken enough by tomorrow evening, June 2nd (EDT), that G1 (Minor) storm levels is the most likely peak response."
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center prediction map is showing that most of Massachusetts has a chance of seeing the lights tonight.
The question is, will the weather cooperate? AccuWeather is currently forecasting mainly clear skies for tonight, despite some spotty showers during the day. So, if the lights reach as far south at Massachusetts, there's a chance.
The sun is currently at solar maximum, according to NASA, the peak of activity in its natural cycle, which is creating more opportunities to see the northern lights.
Here's what to know.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) aurora forecast, the northern lights may be viewable in Massachusetts, though some of the southeastern portion of the state may have a hard time seeing it. Northern New England and New York have even better odds.
The northern lights are typically most visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. according to NOAA.
"Best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10 PM and 2 AM local time)," the said. "These hours of active aurora expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases. There may be aurora in the evening and morning but it is usually not as active and therefore, not as visually appealing."
As always, dark skies make for better stargazing.
"We typically suggest getting away from cities and find a open field or hilltop to lay out under the stars and wait for the show to really peak at the late evening or early morning hours," Massachusetts Institute of Technology Technical Instructor and Observatory Manager Tim Brothers said in a past interview with Wicked Local.
He continued, "In New England, heading for a local conservation area or park that keeps lighting off at night is ideal. Another option is a coastline away from the larger cities — the benefit being that the constellation where you will see most of the 'shooting stars.'"
If you want a chance at seeing the Northern Lights, here are some websites you can monitor the sun's activity:
The Space Weather Prediction Center
Space.com
Aurora forecast page (NOAA)
Aurora Reach
Aurora Alerts
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Northern lights may be visible in MA tonight. See map, weather
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