AuraWatch
Real-time space weather monitoring — aurora forecasts, solar wind, and geomagnetic storm tracking.
Space Weather Dashboard
Live from NOAA
What Causes Auroras?
Auroras occur when charged particles from the Sun (solar wind) interact with Earth's magnetosphere. These particles travel along magnetic field lines to the poles, where they collide with atmospheric gases, producing the stunning light displays we know as Aurora Borealis (north) and Aurora Australis (south).
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Altitude
100–300 km above Earth
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Location
Arctic & Antarctic Circles
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Colors
Green, Red, Blue, Purple
Green Color
Oxygen at ~100 km
Oxygen at ~100 km
Purple/Red
Nitrogen molecules
Nitrogen molecules
Solar Cycles
Peak every ~11 years
Peak every ~11 years
Best Time
10 PM – 2 AM local time, during new moon for darkest skies
Best Location
High latitudes (above 60°N / below 60°S), away from light pollution
Kp Index Guide
Kp 5+ needed at mid-latitudes. Kp 7+ visible as far south as 40°N
Photography
ISO 1600+, 15–30s exposure, wide angle lens, tripod essential