Iceland at Night

Latest Aurora Forecast Updates

Stay informed with the most current Northern Lights predictions

Welcome to our Aurora Forecast Updates page, where you can always find the most accurate and up-to-date predictions for the Northern Lights. Whether you're a seasoned aurora chaser or a curious first-timer, this is your go-to source for planning the perfect night under the shimmering skies.

Current Forecast:

  • Date: December 18, 2024
  • Auroral Activity Level: Solar wind is fast, decent Northern Lights likely tonight.
  • Best Viewing Times: From 21:00-03:00, earlier if Bz is south.
  • Weather Conditions: Check cloud cover forecast for your area. Yellow and orange weather warnings due to a storm in many locations.
  • Recommended Viewing Locations: Rural areas

Upcoming Predictions:

  • Date: December 19-20, 2024
  • Expected Auroral Activity: Aurora activity expected to decrease.
  • Viewing Conditions: Check cloud cover forecast.

Tips for Aurora Viewing:

  1. Timing is Key: The aurora can be unpredictable, so keep an eye on this page for real-time updates and notifications.
  2. Find a Dark Spot: City lights can wash out the aurora, so head to a location with minimal light pollution for the best experience.
  3. Dress Warmly: Aurora viewing often means standing outside for extended periods. Layer up and stay warm.
  4. Be Patient: Sometimes the aurora takes time to reveal itself. Stay patient, keep watching the skies, and you may be rewarded with a breathtaking display.
  5. Watch the real time space weather data: Keep your eyes on the solar wind speed and the north-south direction (Bz value) of the magnetic field; south (negative value) is key.

Note: Aurora forecasts are based on solar activity and weather conditions, both of which can change rapidly. Be sure to check back frequently for the latest updates.

Interested in taking your own images of the aurora? Follow the steps in our article How to photograph the Northern Lights and you'll have beautiful images to share.

Other sky events in December

  • December: Venus low in west after sunset.
  • December: Jupiter shines brightly all night.
  • December: Mars high in the east around midnight
  • December 21: Winter solstice
  • December 22: Ursid meteor shower peaking
  • December 30: New moon

January 2025

  • January 3: Moon close to Venus in the evening sky
  • January 4: Earth closest to sun
  • January 4: Moon close to Saturn in the evening sky
  • January 6: First quarter Moon
  • January 13: Full Moon
  • January 14: Moon and Mars conjunction in the morning sky in west
  • January 16: Mars at opposition, shining bright from dusk till dawn
  • January 18: Venus close to Saturn in the evening sky
  • January 21: Last quarter Moon
  • January 29: New Moon

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