Winter to bring best northern lights displays for 20 years, scientists say

Good news for northern lights enthusiasts: Scientists predict that winter 2023 will bring the best northern lights displays in 20 years. The sun is expected to reach the peak of its 11-year activity cycle, known as solar maximum, between January and October 2024. This means that there will be more solar storms and more aurorae, visible further south than normal.

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural light display that can be seen in the night sky in high-latitude regions. They are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere. The best places to see the northern lights are typically in northern Norway, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Alaska, and northern Canada. However, during solar maximum, the auroral oval expands, meaning that the northern lights may be visible further south, even in places like the northern United States and Europe.

If you’re planning a trip to see the northern lights this winter, here are a few tips:

• Choose your destination carefully. The best places to see the northern lights are in dark skies away from city lights. Some popular destinations include Tromsø, Norway; Abisko, Sweden; and Fairbanks, Alaska.
• Check the aurora forecast. There are a number of websites and apps that provide aurora forecasts. This can help you plan your trip and increase your chances of seeing the northern lights.
• Be patient. The northern lights can be unpredictable, so it may take some time to see them. Be patient and enjoy the experience!

Here are a few places in the United States where you may be able to see the northern lights during solar maximum:

• Fairbanks, Alaska: Fairbanks is one of the best places in the United States to see the northern lights. It is located directly under the auroral oval and has long, dark nights.
• Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada: Yellowknife is another great place to see the northern lights. It is located just north of the auroral oval and has a very clear night sky.
• Caribou, Maine: Caribou is located in northern Maine and is one of the few places in the lower United States where the northern lights are sometimes visible.
• Glacier National Park, Montana: Glacier National Park is a great place to see the northern lights because of its dark skies and remote location.
• Grand Forks, North Dakota: Grand Forks is located in northeastern North Dakota and is another good place to see the northern lights.

If you’re lucky enough to see the northern lights, be sure to take your time and enjoy the experience. These amazing light displays are something that you’ll never forget.

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