Northern Lights Expected to Appear as Far South as Pennsylvania and Oregon
A recent solar flare is expected to bring the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, into view for a wider audience then usual beginning September 1st, perhaps lasting thru September 2nd. The display is a result of a moderate coronal mass ejection (CME) that occurred on August 30th, sending charged particles toward Earth.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts the CME will trigger a G3 geomagnetic storm, with a slight possibility of reaching G4 intensity at its peak. This increased activity means the aurora could be visible as far south as states like Pennsylvania and oregon, with those living north of those locations having an even greater chance of witnessing the phenomenon, weather permitting.
Auroras are created when charged particles from the sun interact with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere, exciting electrons and releasing photons of light. While CMEs can sometimes disrupt electronics and dialog systems, NOAA indicates the August 30th event poses no notable threat. Potential minor and temporary disruptions could include fluctuations in the power grid and interference with satellite and wireless communications.
To maximize viewing opportunities, experts recommend looking north, minimizing light pollution, and allowing eyes to adjust to the darkness. Modern smartphones,even using standard low-light modes,are generally capable of capturing images of the aurora. Astrophotography modes may sacrifice detail due to longer exposure times.
