The northern lights were recently visible at nighttime in certain states. From states like Georgia to Alabama to Wisconsin, multiple cities were able to view the array of purple and green at night. As photos and videos of the Aurora Borealis spread all over the internet, people are wondering when the next one will be visible. For those who may have missed it, you might have the opportunity to see it again. The Northern Lights weren’t the only major event that families have gathered outside for this year. In April, tons of people gathered outside to celebrate and view the solar eclipse, which doesn’t happen as often as the Aurora Borealis.

The aurora borealis was also visible earlier this week in certain Midwestern states like Idaho, northern states like New York and Southern states like South Carolina. So what exactly causes the northern lights to be visible? These beautiful natural lights in the sky are seen at night but are actually caused by the sun. The sun sends us natural light and heat, while in the process sending energy and particles. Sometimes the sun can cause solar storms, which in turn bring energy and particles down a magnetic field. The particles end up interacting with atmospheric gasses, causing a beautiful array of colors in the sky, also known as the Northern Lights. So will the Northern Lights be visible again? Let’s find out.

Will The Northern Lights Be Visible Again?

We don’t exactly know for sure when the Northern lights will be visible again. Scientists can make estimated guesses, but it’s hard to predict the exact timing and place. The solar maximum typically runs about every 11 years or so, with the current cycle being predicted between January and October of this year.

For those looking to see the northern lights, traveling north towards the magnetic pole gives you the best chance of seeing the lights. The lights are most active during the dark at night, typically between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. If you have a hill in your backyard or where you view the lights from, you’re in a better position to fully view the beauty and the gorgeous colors.

Will the Northern lights be visible again outside of the US? For U.K. residents, there’s a chance they will be. There’s a slight chance the lights will be visible again on May 17 and May 18, 2024. North-facing locations have the best views, so make sure you’re in an area that’s facing North and preferably uphill.