One of the most exciting parts of planning a trip to see the Northern Lights is the anticipation of catching that first glimpse of the aurora. But here’s the catch: the Northern Lights are unpredictable. To maximize your chances, you need to keep an eye on the aurora forecast and get real-time alerts when conditions are perfect. Luckily, there are some fantastic apps and websites that make it easy for you to stay informed. Let’s dive into the best tools you can use to track the aurora borealis and make your trip a success.
1. My Aurora Forecast & Alerts (App)
This app is one of the most popular choices for aurora hunters. It’s free, easy to use, and gives you all the essential information right at your fingertips. Here’s what makes it great:
- Aurora visibility chances: It tells you how likely you are to see the Northern Lights based on your location.
- KP Index: This number indicates how strong the aurora activity is. The higher the number, the more likely you are to see the lights.
- Cloud cover information: Because clouds can block your view of the lights, the app shows you how cloudy it is in your area.
- Alerts: You can set notifications to let you know when the aurora might be visible, so you don’t miss a thing.
Available on both iOS and Android, this app is perfect for both beginners and seasoned aurora chasers.
2. Aurora Alerts – Northern Lights Alerts (App)
Another excellent app, Aurora Alerts, gives you real-time updates on aurora activity. Here’s what it offers:
- Live aurora maps: These maps show current aurora activity around the world, so you can see where the lights are visible right now.
- Customizable alerts: You can set specific KP index levels for when you want to be notified. For example, if you’re only interested in higher activity (KP 4 or above), the app will alert you when conditions are right.
- Detailed forecasts: It provides hourly forecasts, so you can plan your night based on when the aurora is most likely to appear.
This app is particularly helpful if you want to plan your nights around the best viewing windows.
3. SpaceWeatherLive (Website and App)
SpaceWeatherLive is a fantastic resource for both aurora newbies and enthusiasts who want more in-depth data. While it might seem more technical at first, it’s one of the most reliable tools out there.
- KP index and solar wind data: This site gives you real-time updates on solar activity, which directly impacts aurora visibility.
- Aurora oval map: This shows where the aurora is currently visible and helps you determine whether you’re within the viewing zone.
- Space weather updates: If you’re into the science behind the Northern Lights, this site also explains what’s happening on the sun and how it’s affecting Earth.
The site also has an app for both iOS and Android, making it convenient for tracking the aurora while on the go.
4. Aurora Service (Website)
Aurora Service is a simple yet effective website that focuses on providing easy-to-read aurora forecasts. It’s ideal for people who want clear, no-fuss information. Here’s why it’s helpful:
- Short-term and long-term forecasts: You can see both immediate aurora predictions as well as forecasts for the next few days.
- Location-based data: It breaks down the forecast based on location, such as Europe, North America, or the Southern Hemisphere.
- Email alerts: If you don’t want to constantly check your phone, you can sign up for email alerts when the aurora is expected to be active in your region.
The site is straightforward and doesn’t overwhelm you with too much information, making it perfect for casual aurora chasers.
5. AuroraWatch UK (App and Website)
If you’re traveling to or living in the UK, AuroraWatch UK is a fantastic tool specifically tailored for that region. Managed by the University of Lancaster, it provides highly accurate data for Northern Lights activity in the UK.
- Alert levels: AuroraWatch uses a simple traffic light system to indicate aurora activity—green means low activity, amber means moderate, and red means strong.
- Alerts and notifications: You can sign up to receive notifications when activity reaches a level likely to result in visible auroras.
- Free to use: Both the app and website are completely free, and since it’s run by a university, the data is reliable and up-to-date.
If you’re hoping to catch the Northern Lights in Scotland or Northern Ireland, this app is a must-have.
6. NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (Website)
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operates a reliable website that’s especially useful for people who want a detailed, scientific forecast.
- Aurora forecast maps: These show real-time and future aurora activity on a global scale.
- Solar storm predictions: Since solar storms drive auroras, this site also gives you advanced warnings about major solar events.
- Hourly updates: The site updates its aurora predictions every hour, so you’ll always have the latest data.
Though it’s more technical, this website is great if you’re serious about getting the most accurate information.
7. PolarlichtVorhersage (Website)
For travelers heading to Europe or Scandinavia, PolarlichtVorhersage is a useful German-based website offering Northern Lights forecasts for the region.
- Aurora probability map: It provides a clear map showing where in Europe you’re most likely to see the aurora.
- KP index and real-time data: Similar to other services, this website offers up-to-the-minute KP index readings and solar wind updates.
While the website is in German, the maps and forecasts are easy to understand, even for non-German speakers.
Final Tips: How to Make the Most of Aurora Forecasts
While these apps and websites are great for predicting Northern Lights activity, it’s important to remember that no forecast is 100% guaranteed. Weather, cloud cover, and solar activity are unpredictable, so flexibility is key when chasing the aurora.
- Check the forecast often: Aurora activity can change quickly, so keep an eye on your app or website regularly, especially when you’re on location.
- Be patient: Sometimes, you’ll need to wait a few hours or even a few days for the right conditions. But when they come, it’ll be worth it!
- Don’t forget the clouds: Even if the aurora is active, clouds can ruin your view, so pay attention to cloud cover in the forecast.
By using these tools and staying flexible, you’ll have the best chance of catching the breathtaking Northern Lights on your trip. Happy aurora hunting!