See stunning photos of the northern lights across Minnesota

For those who missed out, you may have a second chance to see the show on Friday night.

The Minnesota Star Tribune
October 11, 2024 at 2:48PM

The northern lights put on a dazzling display Thursday night across Minnesota.

For those who missed out, fret not — you may have a second chance to see the show on Friday night.

The Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G4 (Severe) storm watch for Friday after a fast coronal mass ejection (CME) erupted from the sun on Sunday night.

Here are some viewing tips if you are hoping for a glimpse tonight.

1. Keep an eye on space and local weather forecasts

The Space Weather Prediction Center puts out a daily graphic that makes it easy to check current and forecasted space weather conditions.

Keep an eye on the local weather, too — if it’s a cloudy or rainy night, you won’t be able to see much.

2. Use dark sky maps for planning

Light pollution maps are handy ways to search potential locations. Big cities and even small towns are best avoided. While recent forecasts have been strong enough to see the lights in the metro, the light show gets better and better the farther north you get.

3. Be ready to drive

While the most serious aurora sleuths go all the way to northern Minnesota, which boasts the state’s internationally certified dark sky areas, you can also get great views if you drive 60 and 90 minutes from the metro to get away from light pollution.

Of course, the forecasts of late have been bright enough to spot the aurora from right in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

4. Look north

A good northern view is key. A northern expanse over a body of water like a lake makes for easy viewing, especially if viewing within the cities. It makes for a great photo, too.

5. Capture the moment

If using your phone camera, set it to a long exposure between three and 10 seconds, to reveal even more colors than what might be visible to the human eye.

Did you see the aurora? Share your photos and videos with us for a chance to be featured in our gallery.

about the writer

Zoë Jackson

Reporter

Zoë Jackson is a general assignment reporter for the Star Tribune. She previously covered race and equity, St. Paul neighborhoods and young voters on the politics team.

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