A coronal mass ejection (CME), a burst of plasma from the sun’s surface, is predicted to interact with Earth’s magnetic field on Saturday, January 6, 2025. This interaction is expected to enhance the visibility of the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, across several northern U.S. states. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipates a Kp index of 4 on a scale of 9, indicating brighter, more dynamic, and visually captivating auroral displays. This heightened activity stems from a CME emitted by the sun on January 2nd, which could also induce minor fluctuations in power grids and potentially impact migratory animal behavior. While the auroral intensity is projected to diminish through Monday, January 8th, there remains a possibility of continued displays in certain states on Sunday.
The geographic reach of the Northern Lights is expected to extend further south than usual, dipping just below the Canadian border into the northern United States. While the highest probabilities of viewing the aurora remain concentrated in northern Canada and Alaska, favorable viewing conditions are also anticipated across portions of the northern U.S. Northeastern Washington, northern Idaho, northeastern Montana, North Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and Upper Michigan have a reasonable chance of witnessing the phenomenon. The probability diminishes slightly further south, with parts of northern South Dakota, northern Maine, and northern Michigan facing lower, but still possible, chances of auroral sightings. This southward expansion of the aurora’s visibility underlines the intensity of the incoming CME.
For those within the viewing zone, the optimal viewing window falls between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. To maximize the viewing experience, NOAA advises seeking locations with minimal light pollution and elevated vantage points. Photographing the aurora requires specific camera settings. National Geographic recommends employing a wide-angle lens, setting a high ISO value, and adjusting the focus to its farthest setting. Smartphone users can also capture the aurora by enabling night mode. These tips aim to capture the vibrant colors and dynamic movements of the auroral display.
This anticipated auroral display follows a period of heightened solar activity. In May 2025, some of the most intense auroral displays in 500 years were observed, coinciding with the strongest magnetic storm to impact Earth in two decades. Remarkably, these events extended the reach of the Northern Lights as far south as Texas and northern Florida. Another similar geomagnetic event occurred in October, further demonstrating the potency of these solar activities. This increase in auroral occurrences throughout 2025 is attributed to the sun reaching its “solar maximum” late last year.
The sun’s activity follows an 11-year cycle, oscillating between periods of high and low activity known as “solar maximum” and “solar minimum.” Solar flares and coronal mass ejections, like the one currently influencing Earth’s magnetic field, are the primary drivers of auroral displays. These events release electrons that interact with nitrogen and oxygen atoms in Earth’s atmosphere. This interaction energizes the atmospheric gases, causing them to release photons – small particles of light – which manifest as the mesmerizing colors and patterns characteristic of the aurora borealis.
Understanding the science behind these spectacular displays enhances the viewing experience. The vibrant colors of the aurora are a direct result of the interaction between solar particles and Earth’s atmosphere. Green, the most common color, arises from the interaction with oxygen at lower altitudes. Higher-altitude interactions with oxygen produce red hues, while nitrogen interactions contribute blue and violet colors. The dynamic patterns, shifting and shimmering across the night sky, reflect the constant interplay between the incoming solar particles and Earth’s magnetic field, painting a breathtaking celestial canvas. The predicted event this weekend offers a unique opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon, a testament to the dynamic relationship between the sun and Earth.
