The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, is a natural phenomenon that many wish to see in their lifetime. The dancing display of lights occurs when charged electrons and protons interact with Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field. The combination results in beautiful hues of purple, green, blue, and pink. The northern lights occur frequently but they’re not always easy to spot. They are a “right place, right time” sort of wonder. However, it’s looking like 2024 may be the best year in quite some time to catch a glimpse of this wonderful marvel.
The driving factor in the prediction that 2024 may come with increased aurora sightings is the solar cycle. The Sun’s magnetic field goes through an 11-year cycle of solar maximum and solar minimum. During solar maximum, there are more sunspots and in turn, higher magnetic activity. The higher magnetic activity causes solar flares to release, which increases aurora activity. Researchers believe that the solar maximum and peak of the current solar cycle will occur in 2024, between January and October.
This is great news for those hoping to see the beautiful northern lights. It is being said that this could be the best display of northern lights in the past 20 years. Additionally, the range from which the lights can be seen may also increase due to the heightened solar activity. This means they may be visible further from the North and South poles than usual, offering a chance for more sightings.
To increase chances of seeing the northern lights, there are certain areas that provide the right set of circumstances. Destinations in the Artic Circle are known as top places to spot the lights because of the dark skies and low light pollution. The city of Tromsø in Norway is a very popular place for northern lights enthusiasts. Iceland, Greenland, and Svalbard are also favored for aurora borealis sightings.
Have no fear if you don’t find yourself in one of those locations. There are many apps and websites you can use to help predict where the lights can be viewed at certain times and locations. Here’s to a colorful 2024!