The solar system is putting on its own New Year's Eve show. aurora It may be visible as far south as Oregon and Illinois on December 31st.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Space Weather Prediction Center issued a geomagnetic storm warning on New Year's Eve. aurora much further south More than usual.
The warning came after several other solar storms hit the north. seen in more people in the United States than normal in 2024.
The sun is now maximum solar activity periodIn , a coronal mass ejection (CME) sends a plume of plasma and magnetic field into space, causing magnetic storm conditions in Earth's magnetosphere.
When a CME comes into contact with the magnetosphere, the charged particles collide with atmospheric gases, releasing energy that manifests as light, giving us a colorful light show known as . aurora.
Although it is difficult to predict space weather, there is a possibility that light may be visible on December 30th. The light is best seen in clear skies, so sky watchers will also need to cooperate with forecasts on the ground.
To get the most out of natural light shows, move outdoors to an area with as little light pollution as possible. If it is difficult to see, your phone may helpThis is because highly sensitive cell phone cameras can capture more light than the naked eye can see.
