NOAA Aurora Forecast

What NOAA Aurora Forecast actually is

The Space Weather Prediction Center models the auroral oval using live solar wind measurements taken by spacecraft sitting upstream of Earth. The map gives predicted brightness and the equatorward edge of visibility for both poles, refreshed every few minutes.

Why it is worth your time

The forecast window is short enough to act on, so a green band creeping south over your latitude counts as an instruction to go and find a coat.

Common questions

Is NOAA Aurora Forecast free?

Yes. NOAA Aurora Forecast is free and does not ask you to register or hand over an email address before you can use it.

How long does NOAA Aurora Forecast take?

Good within five seconds of loading. We file it under "Instant" — where the aurora will be visible in thirty minutes.

Does NOAA Aurora Forecast work on a phone?

Yes. NOAA Aurora Forecast works on a phone as well as it does on a laptop.

What kind of site is NOAA Aurora Forecast?

We list it under The Live Planet — what earth is doing, right this second. The forecast window is short enough to act on, so a green band creeping south over your latitude counts as an instruction to go and find a coat.