AI Image
Northern lights could be visible in NH skies over weekend
WMUR • • science
Key Points:
- Three coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun are expected to reach Earth this weekend, potentially causing strong geomagnetic storms and visible northern lights in New Hampshire.
- The first CME is predicted to hit Friday afternoon, with possible aurora sightings after sunset, followed by additional chances on Saturday and Sunday nights depending on solar wind strength.
- The third CME originated from an M-class solar flare that created a solar tsunami, but it may only graze Earth's atmosphere as it was not directly aimed at the planet.
- For optimal viewing, experts recommend finding dark, rural locations away from city lights, using cameras with slow shutter speeds to capture colors, and being patient as auroras are unpredictable.
- Aurora visibility depends on weather conditions, solar activity intensity, and geographic location, so sightings are not guaranteed despite favorable solar events.
