Expert: James Gort - 12/15/2006

Question
Hi, I saw today on the news that the northern lights may be seen in Kansas tonight.  I need to know what time to look.  Thanks in advance!
Christi

Answer
Hi Christi,

That's very difficult to predict.  It depends on what materials were ejected by the sun, how fast they take to arrive, the condition of the earth's magnetic field (and upper atmosphere) when they arrive, etc.  I just saw a nice aurora at 7:45pm (EST).  I hope it's clear (not cloudy) by you.  I just suggest you look North for a "glowing".  Sometimes it just looks like high clouds.  But you'll be able to see stars "through" it, so you'll know it's not clouds.  Sometimes it will look like shimmering curtains, and you might see different colors (red and green usually).  But it will change QUICKLY.  If you don't see anything now, wait a half an hour and try again.  Keep on trying.  If it's clear by you, you should be able to see something tonight.  Good luck!

Prof. James Gort