North Region Vermont forecast zone
State: Vermont
Score: 91 (Great)
Best window: Friday 12:00 AM-3:00 AM EDT
Main factor: Northern horizon and cloud risk
Event details
Aurora Solar-Max Watch
Aurora can appear as northern sky glow, pillars, or moving curtains during geomagnetic activity.
When to look: Window: 2026-01-01 to 2028-12-31. Use clear windows aligned with event timing and local constraints.
Where visible: US nationwide
How to watch: No telescope required. A phone or camera can reveal color before your eyes do.
What can ruin visibility
Check these before travel
Clouds, city glow, weak geomagnetic activity, and a blocked northern horizon can ruin visibility.
- Check geomagnetic activity
- Find a clear northern horizon
- Avoid city light domes
- Recheck clouds before driving
Event timing and verification
Authoritative date plus local-condition handoff
Calendar status: Active through Dec 31
Calendar policy: Past event windows are removed from current and upcoming lists.
Forecast dataset: 2026-07-24
Use this event page for the sky-window baseline, then use the map or tonight forecast for clouds, moonlight, darkness, and the best local viewing window.
Best northern starting locations
Prioritize northern latitude, low clouds, and an open northern horizon
North Region Alaska forecast zone
State: Alaska
Score: 90 (Great)
Best window: Friday 8:00 PM-11:00 PM AKDT
Main factor: Northern horizon and cloud risk
North Region Massachusetts forecast zone
State: Massachusetts
Score: 90 (Great)
Best window: Friday 12:00 AM-3:00 AM EDT
Main factor: Northern horizon and cloud risk
North Region North Dakota forecast zone
State: North Dakota
Score: 90 (Great)
Best window: Thursday 11:00 PM-2:00 AM CDT (from latest forecast run)
Main factor: Northern horizon and cloud risk
Check activity and northern horizon
Simple field check
Aurora trips depend on geomagnetic activity and cloud cover. Confirm activity is elevated and choose a site with a clear northern horizon before driving.
Watch after dark when activity is elevated and clouds are low.
Recheck local sky conditions before long travel, especially if the event depends on a short viewing window.