Key Takeaways
- A geomagnetic storm is expected to hit the Northern Hemisphere on January 19-20, increasing the possibility of the aurora borealis being visible across a large portion of the country.
- The storm could impact power systems, spacecraft operations, and satellite and radio navigation, with potential detrimental effects on critical infrastructure technology.
- The aurora borealis is expected to be widely visible in the early morning hours of January 20, with geomagnetic activity returning to normal levels by Tuesday night.
- To capture the best photos of the northern lights, adjust the exposure time and enable night mode on your smartphone, and consider using a tripod for optimal results.
Introduction to the Geomagnetic Storm
The middle of winter may seem like an unlikely time to spot the aurora borealis, but tonight, January 19-20, could be a great opportunity for hardy skywatchers to witness this natural phenomenon. A geomagnetic storm is expected to hit the Northern Hemisphere, increasing the possibility of the aurora borealis being visible across a huge chunk of the country, including areas as far south as Alabama and northern California. According to the Space Weather Prediction Center, this storm will bring a high level of geomagnetic activity, making it possible for people to see the northern lights in areas that do not typically experience this phenomenon.
Understanding Geomagnetic Storms
A geomagnetic storm is the result of a coronal mass ejection (CME), which is an eruption of solar material and magnetic fields from the sun. When a CME arrives at Earth, it can cause a geomagnetic storm, which can have significant effects on our planet’s magnetic field. The Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G4 "severe" geomagnetic storm watch, indicating that the storm could impact power systems, spacecraft operations, and satellite and radio navigation. This level of watch is considered "very rare," and the prediction center warns that detrimental impacts to critical infrastructure technology are possible, although mitigation is possible.
Aurora Borealis Forecast
The aurora borealis is only expected to be widely visible in the early morning hours of January 20, with geomagnetic activity returning to normal levels by Tuesday night. This means that skywatchers will need to be prepared to stay up late or wake up early to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. The Space Weather Prediction Center has provided a forecast of the aurora borealis, indicating that it will be visible over much of the northern half of the country, including areas that do not typically experience this phenomenon.
Geomagnetic Storm Scale
The geomagnetic storm scale goes from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), with the current storm being classified as a G4 "severe" storm. This level of storm can cause significant disruptions to power systems, spacecraft operations, and satellite and radio navigation. The Space Weather Prediction Center monitors the geomagnetic storm scale closely, providing updates and warnings to help mitigate the effects of these storms.
Capturing the Aurora Borealis on Camera
For those who want to capture the beauty of the aurora borealis on camera, there are some tips to keep in mind. According to Travelfoss, the best way to take photos of the northern lights on a smartphone is by adjusting the exposure time and enabling night mode. By adjusting the exposure time to its maximum of 10 seconds (or 30 seconds if using a tripod), you can capture more light and get a better image of the aurora. However, if there is too much ambient light, night mode may let in too much and overexpose your photos, so it may be necessary to modify the exposure adjustment setting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the geomagnetic storm expected to hit the Northern Hemisphere on January 19-20 provides a unique opportunity for skywatchers to witness the aurora borealis. With the right equipment and a bit of planning, it is possible to capture stunning photos of this natural phenomenon. By understanding the causes and effects of geomagnetic storms, we can better appreciate the beauty and power of the aurora borealis, and take steps to mitigate the potential disruptions caused by these storms. Whether you are a seasoned skywatcher or just looking to experience something new, this event is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
