“Blast of Aurora: When the Northern Lights Descend on the Continental US on New Year’s Eve”

**The Northern Lights Put on a Show: Where to See the Spectacular Display**

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, the solar system is putting on a spectacular show, and the Northern Lights may be visible as far south as Oregon and Illinois. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a geomagnetic storm warning for the occasion, and the phenomenon may move further south than usual.

**What Causes the Northern Lights?**

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) sent into space by the sun. When these CMEs collide with the Earth’s magnetosphere, charged particles collide with atmospheric gases, releasing energy in the form of light. This energy is what we see as the colorful light display of the Northern Lights.

**Solar Maximum**

The sun is currently at solar maximum, a period of increased solar activity that occurs every 11 years. This increase in activity leads to more frequent and intense CMEs, which in turn trigger geomagnetic storms in the Earth’s magnetosphere. The result is a more frequent and intense display of the Northern Lights.

**Predicting the Northern Lights**

Space weather is difficult to predict, and the exact timing and intensity of the Northern Lights can be difficult to forecast. However, the Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a geomagnetic storm warning for New Year’s Eve, indicating that the Northern Lights may be visible further south than usual.

**Best Viewspots**

For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, head somewhere outdoors with minimal light pollution. A dark location with as little artificial light as possible will provide the best viewing experience. If you’re unable to see the Northern Lights with the naked eye, consider using a cell phone with a sensitive camera to capture the display. Sensitive cell phone cameras can sometimes capture more light than is visible to the human eye.

**Frequently Asked Questions**

Q: What is the Solar Maximum?
A: The Solar Maximum is a period of increased solar activity that occurs every 11 years. During this time, the sun’s magnetic field becomes more active, leading to more frequent and intense coronal mass ejections and geomagnetic storms.

Q: What causes the Northern Lights?
A: The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) sent into space by the sun. When these CMEs collide with the Earth’s magnetosphere, charged particles collide with atmospheric gases, releasing energy in the form of light.

Q: Is it safe to see the Northern Lights?
A: Yes, watching the Northern Lights is generally safe. However, it’s always important to take precautions when outside at night, such as dressing warmly and staying alert for any potential hazards.

Q: Can I see the Northern Lights elsewhere?
A: Yes, the Northern Lights can be seen throughout the Northern Hemisphere, but they are typically most visible at high latitudes, such as Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia.

**Conclusion**

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can be both breathtaking and awe-inspiring. As the solar system puts on a show for the New Year, grab a pair of binoculars, head to a dark location, and enjoy the spectacle.