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A part of the northern United States could have the chance to observe the northern lights Saturday evening, the last opportunity to observe the phenomenon as the activity on the surface of the sun reaches a “solar maximum”, according to forecasts of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Key facts

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Where will the Northern Lights be visible?

Northern Canada and Alaska will be more likely to see the Northern Lights, and the line of sight, which represents minimal opportunity to see the phenomenon, goes down to just below the Canadian border. Areas of northern Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota will have a low probability of seeing auroral activity, while parts of South Dakota, Wisconsin and Michigan will have a lower probability. (See the visualization line below.)

What is the best way to see the Northern Lights?

The lights are best visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, away from light pollution and at a high vantage point, NOAA said.

What is the best way to photograph the Northern Lights?

A regular camera with the furthest possible focus, wide aperture, low shutter speed and high ISO will be able to capture the Northern Lights, according to at Adobe. If you’re using a smartphone, the Icelandic tourism website recommended enable night mode and a lower shutter speed.

Key context

There has been an increase in sunspots and coronal mass ejections in recent weeks as the sun reaches its peak during its 11-year cycle, solar cycle 25, according to NASA. These space weather events impact Earth with solar radiation and geomagnetic storms, which attract the northern lights further south. Opportunities to see the Northern Lights will likely increase through 2025 and early 2026, according to NOAA and NASA. Other celestial events have also intensified, with an annual series of meteor showers and comets becoming visible in the night sky. The Southern Taurids meteor showers, active since September 23, will peak on Sunday, and the Northern Taurids will peak between November 11 and 12. Other meteor showers will appear later this year, including the Leonids, Geminids, Ursids and Quadrantids.

Further reading

ForbesA ‘Halloween Comet’ Could Be Visible Tonight: Here’s How to See ItBy Ty RoushForbesA ‘Halloween Fireball’ Meteor Shower Will Peak This Weekend: Here’s How to Watch ItBy Ty Roush