On Thursday night, solar storm forecasts show that the Northern Lights may be visible across 17 states, including Wisconsin. As the sun reaches solar maximum, its explosions create stronger auroral activity and make it possible for the lights to reach southern parts of the state.
Matthew Ryno, Secretary and Board of Directors member of the Milwaukee Astronomical Society, recommends Harrington Beach and Kettle Moraine North for viewing spots. However, auroral strength may be low and there are cloud and rain chances, meaning that the best opportunity to see the Northern Lights is to head to northern Wisconsin.
The best time to spot the auroras will be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Light pollution is a big factor in decreased visibility, so it is important to move away from city centers. When taking photos of the auroras, Ryno suggests using night mode. This can bring out different colors and details that may not be accessible to the naked eye.
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Ryno wants aurora seekers to be aware that, just like our day-to-day weather, solar weather can be unpredictable. “Sometimes you get it right, but other times we’re wrong because we are referring to energy that is traveling far distances,” said Ryno. To stay updated, use the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOA) forecast.
Regardless of how visible the Northern Lights are this Thursday, Ryno notes that the excitement around solar events has increased in recent years. For the Milwaukee Astronomical Society, they had their biggest year of open-house attendance in 2022.
Ryno urges those interested in the Northern Lights to get involved in their local astronomical society and explore other exciting space phenomena.
“There’s a lot more out there than just auroras,” he says. “But it’s a great gateway and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
