Overview
- NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center posted a strong geomagnetic storm watch for Thursday and Friday tied to an incoming coronal mass ejection.
- Forecast targets rise from a Kp index of 5 on Wednesday night to 7 on Thursday night, pointing to a chance for brighter, more widespread displays if conditions align.
- NOAA viewlines for Thursday indicate potential visibility across 22 northern states from the Lower Midwest to Oregon, with possible sightings as far south as Iowa, Pennsylvania and Oregon.
- Operators are advised to monitor for effects on power grids, satellite systems and crewed spaceflight during the watch period.
- Best viewing is expected from dark locations between roughly 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., with tripods and low apertures recommended for photography.