COLUMBUS, OH — The northern lights may be visible across Indiana and Ohio Thursday night into Friday morning if the space weather forecast holds. A G2, or moderate, geomagnetic storm is possible as a couple of coronal mass ejections interact with Earth. While this event is not as strong as some previous displays, viewing conditions are expected to be nearly perfect. Clear skies and minimal moonlight will also set up a great night for the Draconid meteor shower and planet viewing.
G2 Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Possible Tonight
Current indications show a G2 moderate geomagnetic storm is possible tonight from October 8 into October 9. The storm is being driven by a couple of coronal mass ejections reaching Earth.
Across Indiana and Ohio, the aurora is likely to be visible mainly through cameras if the forecast verifies. That includes areas near South Bend, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Evansville, Toledo, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Marietta, and Portsmouth.
Monitor Solar Winds, Not Just the Kp Index
Aurora watchers should not rely solely on the Kp index or the G-level forecast. Conditions can change quickly, and those numbers alone do not always reflect what will be visible.
Checking real-time solar wind data and magnetometer readings gives a better sense of when the aurora may appear. Northern lights viewing is never guaranteed, even with a favorable forecast.
Phone Camera Tips for Capturing the Aurora
Phone cameras can often pick up the aurora better than the human eye. Using night mode and a long exposure setting of about 5 to 10 seconds can help capture faint colors…