With nice temperatures, clear skies and a forecast that it's possible to see the Northern lights in 15 states tonight, including New Hampshire and Maine, it's a good evening to spend some time outside.
The Space Weather Prediction Center is predicthing that northern states from Washington to Maine have a chance to see the natural phenomenon due to a minor G1 storm.
Northern maine and the very tip of northern New Hampshire have the best chance at seeing the aurora borealis, though it's not a guarantee.
Map of where Northern lights may be visible
In the forecast, the following states have the best chance of seeing the auroras.
Washington
Idaho
Montana
North Dakota
South Dakota
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Michigan
Alaska
However, the following states are in the view line, which shows where people still may have a chance of seeing the phenomena.
Wyoming
Iowa
New York
Vermont
New Hampshire
Maine
When is the best time to see the northern lights?
The northern lights are typically most visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. according to NOAA. Accprding to the 3-day forecast by the Space Prediction Center, the best time to see this storm is likely between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
How to see the northern lights
As always, dark skies make for better stargazing.
"We typically suggest getting away from cities and find a open field or hilltop to lay out under the stars and wait for the show to really peak at the late evening or early morning hours," Massachusetts Institute of Technology Technical Instructor and Observatory Manager Tim Brothers said in a past interview with Wicked Local.
He continued, "In New England, heading for a local conservation area or park that keeps lighting off at night is ideal. Another option is a coastline away from the larger cities — the benefit being that the constellation where you will see most of the 'shooting stars.'"
Places to check for northern lights forecast
If you want a chance at seeing the Northern Lights, here are some websites you can monitor the sun's activity:
The Space Weather Prediction Center
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Northern lights could be visible in NH, Maine tonight. See map
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