by Hjalmar

Northern Lights Map & Aurora Forecast

Real-time aurora forecast with clear sky detection. Discover the best locations to see the northern lights tonight with our interactive map.

View map

How to use our northern lights forecast

To accurately predict when and where you can see the northern lights, we track three 3 essential measurements: KP index 1, HPI 2, and Bz 3. Understanding these values will help you find the best time to see this spectacular phenomenon.

What is the Kp Index?

1

The Kp Index is the most important measurement for aurora viewing, ranging from 0 to 9. The Kp-index does not have a physical unit - it is a quasi-logarithmic scale that measures the global geomagnetic disturbances caused by solar wind.

Kp 0-2: Weak Activity
Common
Only visible near the Arctic Circle under perfect conditions. Best spots: Northern Scandinavia.
Kp 3-4: Good Conditions
Common
Visible in places like Tromsø, Abisko, and Iceland. Perfect for planned aurora trips.
Kp 5-6: Storm Levels
Uncommon
Can reach southern Scandinavia and northern UK. Worth traveling to see!
Kp 7-9: Major Storm
Rare
Visible at mid-latitudes. Extremely rare but spectacular displays.

What is HPI?

2

The Hemispheric Power Index measures the total energy of the aurora in gigawatts (GW).

Below 20 GW: Low Activity
Faint auroras, typically only visible with cameras or in perfect conditions.
20-35 GW: Normal Activity
Visible to the naked eye in dark locations. Good photography conditions.
35-50 GW: Strong Activity
Bright, dynamic auroras. Excellent for both viewing and photography.
Above 50 GW: Intense Activity
Very bright and active. Can sometimes be seen despite light pollution.

What is Bz?

3

The solar wind's magnetic direction that triggers aurora activity when pointing south (negative values).

Above 0 nT
Stable conditions. Lower chance of aurora activity.
0 to -5 nT
Mild conditions. Aurora possible in usual locations.
-5 to -10 nT
Good conditions for aurora formation. Worth monitoring.
Below -10 nT
Strong magnetic storm conditions. High chance of aurora activity.

Viewing Tips

Info

Follow these guidelines to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora.

Best Viewing Locations

  • ALWAYS
    Choose a dark location away from city lights

Aurora Timing Guide

Aurora Activity Probability by Hour

Best during polar night (Oct-Mar) when skies are darkest. Displays last 15 min - 2 hours

6 PM7 PM8 PM9 PM10 PM11 PM12 AM1 AM2 AM3 AM4 AM5 AM

Aurora Probability Levels

Very Low
Low Probability
Moderate Probability
High Probability

Best Viewing Time

8:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Highest probability of aurora displays during darkest hours

Weather Conditions

  • CHECK
    Cloud coverage before heading out

Real-Time Monitoring

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Aurora & Weather Data

Current KP

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Current HPI

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Current Bz

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