How to Watch the Northern Lights on Friday the 13th

**Breathtaking Aurora Borealis Expected This Weekend in Northern US and Canada**

This coming weekend presents an exciting opportunity for skywatchers, with the potential for stunning displays of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, as a minor geomagnetic storm is anticipated. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued warnings that starting Friday, March 13, and into the early hours of Saturday, March 14, atmospheric conditions will be favourable for observing these spectacular light shows across parts of North America.

The forecast for this display is linked to a fast-flowing stream of solar wind emanating from a coronal hole on the sun. This interaction between the solar particles and Earth’s magnetic field is expected to create vivid auroras high in the sky. According to space weather experts, geomagnetic conditions will begin to improve on Friday afternoon as the Earth moves into this enhanced solar wind stream.

Typically, the aurora borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, producing those captivating waves of colourful light. While these phenomena are most commonly observed in regions close to the poles, minor geomagnetic storms can cause the auroral oval to extend farther south than usual. This increase in visibility means that viewers in northern U.S. states along the Canadian border could see the lights illuminating the horizon, assuming weather conditions cooperate.

Interestingly, the timing of this event aligns with what is known as the “equinox effect,” which results in heightened geomagnetic disturbances around the spring equinox. This natural phenomenon benefits stargazers who may witness stronger auroras during this period. With clear skies and optimal viewing conditions, excitement is building for the opportunity to glimpse this celestial display.

The auroras are generally most visible between 10 PM and 2 AM local time, coinciding with the perfect alignment of Earth’s magnetic field to incoming solar particles. NOAA has highlighted that geomagnetic activity is likely to reach G1 (minor storm) levels throughout Friday evening and possibly continuing into Saturday.

Certain states are better positioned for optimal viewing. Alaska, along with northern regions of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine, stand out as the areas with the highest chances of spotting this spectacular light show. Residents and visitors in these areas should keep their eyes to the skies as the weekend unfolds.

For those keen to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, preparation is essential. Selecting a viewing spot away from city lights is crucial for the best experience. Suitable locations should offer a wide, unobstructed view of the northern horizon, preferably from elevated ground that has minimal light pollution. It is advisable to allow at least 20 minutes for your vision to adjust to the dark, enhancing the likelihood of seeing the lights.

Photography enthusiasts hoping to capture the beauty of the aurora borealis should keep a few tips in mind. Steady setups are key for photographing the lights, which are best captured using long exposure techniques. Those equipped with smartphones can also join in on the fun; simply enable the “Night Mode” or use “Pro Mode” settings to enhance their photographs of the magical display.

As anticipation grows, skywatchers across North America are urged to prepare for a weekend of natural wonder. The chance to see the aurora borealis is a rare and unforgettable experience, and with proper planning and clear skies, many will have the opportunity to witness this extraordinary phenomenon.