Northern lights shine in some states amid minor geomagnetic storm

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, have captivated human imagination for centuries with their ethereal beauty and vibrant colors. Recently, a minor geomagnetic storm has provided an opportunity for residents in various states to witness this natural phenomenon. The occurrence of geomagnetic storms is a result of solar activity that impacts the Earth's magnetic field. Specifically, these storms are triggered by coronal mass ejections from the sun, which release charged particles into space. When these particles collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, they produce stunning light displays predominantly seen in polar regions but occasionally visible at lower latitudes during heightened solar activity.

In recent weeks, reports have indicated that several states across the northern United States experienced enhanced visibility of the auroras due to a minor geomagnetic storm classified as G1 on the NOAA scale. This level of geomagnetic disturbance is characterized by potential disruptions in satellite operations and radio communications but also creates conditions conducive for viewing auroras further south than usual. States such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, and even parts of Michigan observed vivid displays of greens and purples dancing across the night sky. Such events not only draw local enthusiasts and photographers but also contribute to scientific understanding regarding solar-terrestrial interactions.

The idea of auroral soundscapes sparked my curiosity. I wondered if the birds were active because of the light of the aurorae. But it was also peak migration season — could that be it instead?

I reached out to Bryan Pijanowski, a soundscape ecologist at Purdue University who specializes in collecting the sounds of nature. In an email, I asked him if aurorae could trigger birdsong or if he knew anything about this phenomenon happening.

“I know of no studies that report on this. … I’m sure there could be a link between the amount of light and a trigger for singing by birds,” Pijanowski replied in an email. “I think there are also reports that these phenomena create sounds in the atmosphere.”

The timing of the event is expected between 8 p.m. and midnight Tuesday.

Light pollution isn't as much of a problem in Foothills County as it sits in larger urban areas, though Duchesne recommends finding an optimal spot if the Northern Lights do come out.

"As always, with all Aurora shows, you do want to try to stay away from nearby sources of light, get out of town. Particularly in Okotoks, you might actually want to east or west. I'd say east. Otherwise, you're looking over all the glow from the city of Calgary. You'll want to have a good north-to-northeast horizon to see things."

For anyone wanting to keep up to date with the latest Aurora Borealis conditions, Duchesne recommends keeping an eye on the Alberta Aurora Chasers Facebook group.

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Sarah H

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