Auroras were spectacularly visible across the northern US on Sunday night, thanks to powerful geomagnetic storms triggered by recent solar activity. As we move into Monday evening, more auroras could grace the skies, potentially visible as far south as New York, Idaho, and even parts of the Midwest.
What Caused the Auroras?
The dramatic light show in the night sky was caused by a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun. This massive burst of solar plasma and magnetic fields hit Earth, sparking a G3 geomagnetic storm.
Key Points:
- Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs): Enormous clouds of solar plasma and magnetic fields ejected from the sun, often linked with solar flares.
- Geomagnetic Storms: These storms occur when CMEs interact with Earth’s magnetosphere, causing disturbances in the planet’s magnetic field.
Currently, Earth is experiencing heightened solar activity, as the sun nears its solar maximum, making such events more common and intense.
Understanding Geomagnetic Storms
Geomagnetic storms are classified on a scale from G1 to G5, with G5 being the most severe. The G3 storm observed on Sunday night was significant but not the most intense.
Storm Severity Scale:
- G1 (Minor): Weakest storm category, often causing minimal auroras.
- G2 (Moderate): More intense, can cause auroras visible at higher latitudes.
- G3 (Strong): Significant storms causing visible auroras at lower latitudes.
- G4 (Severe): Powerful storms, major impact on satellite systems and power grids.
- G5 (Extreme): The most intense storms, rare but can cause widespread auroras and significant disruptions.
Auroras Seen Across the Northern US
The recent geomagnetic activity led to stunning auroras visible across several states. On Sunday night, the auroras extended as far south as Northern California and Nevada.
Highlighted Observations:
- Southern Nevada: Stunning crimson aurora pillars were visible near Las Vegas. Dr. Tamitha Skov tweeted about the impressive aurora show despite the G3 storm level.
- Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument: David J. Syzdek shared his experience of seeing auroras again in Southern Nevada, with added lightning from a distant thunderstorm.
Twitter Highlights:
- Dr. Tamitha Skov: “WOW Stunning crimson #aurora pillars visible over southern Nevada near Las Vegas tonight during this ongoing #solarstorm! We may only be at G3 levels, but Earth has been so rattled for the past two days that it is preconditioned to vent energy via aurora shows. Thx for reporting!”
- David J. Syzdek: “Can’t believe I got auroras again in Southern Nevada tonight at Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument just north of Las Vegas! Not as bright as in May but had some bonus lightning from a distant thunderstorm! #NvWx #NevadaAurora #aurora #Auroraborealis”
What to Expect Tonight
The geomagnetic activity is expected to continue, with the potential for additional G1 or G2 storms. This could lead to further aurora sightings as far south as New York and the Midwest.
How to Prepare:
- Check Local Aurora Forecasts: Websites and apps provide real-time aurora forecasts and visibility maps.
- Find a Dark Spot: The best aurora views are away from city lights.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with updates from space weather experts and local weather stations.
The Science Behind Auroras
Auroras occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. These particles collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere, like oxygen and nitrogen, causing them to emit light. The result is the beautiful display of the northern and southern lights.
Aurora Formation Process:
- Solar Wind: Charged particles from the sun travel towards Earth.
- Magnetosphere Interaction: These particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field.
- Atmospheric Collision: Particles collide with atmospheric gases, causing them to light up.
Why This Matters
Seeing auroras is not only a spectacular visual experience but also an opportunity to understand the dynamic interactions between solar activity and Earth’s atmosphere. Increased solar activity, such as CMEs, can have broader implications, including impacts on satellite communications and power grids.
All Photos:
Additional Resources:
- Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs): Click here
- Geomagnetic Storms: Click here
- Aurora Forecasting: Click here
- Solar Activity and Auroras: Click here
- Space Weather Updates: Click here
