Bob Hughes
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Arizona skywatchers were treated to a surprise appearance of the northern lights on Tuesday as the phenomenon lit up skies locally. Will the northern lights be visible in Arizona again tonight?
There’s a good chance, according to local astronomers and the latest space weather forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Recent solar storms caused a coronal mass ejection from the sun, sending charged particles streaming toward Earth.
On Tuesday, residents from Flagstaff to Prescott and even parts of northern Phoenix captured photos of glowing reds, purples and pinks streaking across the night sky.
Another sighting of the aurora borealis is predicted Wednesday evening. Here’s how to see the northern lights over Arizona tonight.
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Bob Hughes
Are the northern lights visible tonight?
They might be. Recent solar storms could make the aurora borealis visible again in parts of Arizona tonigt.
What time can you see the northern lights in Arizona tonight?
The best viewing times are usually between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. when the sky is darkest.
Where can I see the northern lights in Arizona?
Head away from city lights. Northern and high-elevation areas like Flagstaff, Prescott or Sedona offer the best chance to see the aurora borealis.
Why are the northern lights visible so far south?
Recent geomagnetic storms have caused the aurora borealis to be visible beyond its normal viewing area in the northern U.S. and Canada. It allows the northern lights to be visible in lower latitudes.
Will the northern lights be visible in Phoenix?
It’s definitely possible due to solar storms this week. Look north toward the horizon from darker areas of the Valley like New River, Cave Creek, Buckeye or Apache Junction.
What causes the northern lights?
They occur when charged solar particles collide with Earth’s magnetic field, creating glowing colors in the upper atmosphere.
Can I use my phone to see the northern lights in Arizona?
Yes. Most smartphone cameras can capture faint images of the northern lights better than the naked eye. Your best shot is to use night mode or shoot from a steady surface.
