Solar Storm Could Trigger Northern Lights as Far South as Alabama – How to Photograph Them with Your Phone
NOAA has issued a rare severe geomagnetic storm watch, which can result in ‘spectacular displays of aurora.’
The northern lights might be visible as far south as Alabama this weekend thanks to a rare severe geomagnetic storm.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, mentioned in a news release that they are keeping an eye on the sun after a “series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that began on May 8.”
The storms can “trigger spectacular displays of aurora” and those in areas like Northern California and even southern states like Alabama could get a chance to witness the northern lights, creating a perfect opportunity for photography.
Typically, the northern lights (also known as the aurora borealis) are best seen from high northern latitudes in winter, particularly in places like Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia.
At least five flares associated with CMEs seemed to be directed towards Earth, NOAA stated.
According to NOAA, CMEs are eruptions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s corona which cause geomagnetic storms if aimed at Earth.
These storms have the potential to disrupt communications, the electric power grid, and navigation, and can affect radio and satellite operations, NOAA mentioned.
The agency also warned that additional solar eruptions could extend the storm conditions through the weekend.
In Iceland, officials have shared some helpful tips on how to capture the beauty of the northern lights.
“Thankfully, you don’t need a high-end full-frame camera and expensive wide-angled lenses with 1.2 aperture—although those are excellent choices,” a post on their website reads. “With advancements in smartphone technology, we can now effectively capture the northern lights and other low-light scenes. The settings are quite simple, and the results can be stunning.”
According to the website, for the best photos, use a tripod, which is “essential for long exposures in low light;” lock your phone’s focus to the “infinity” setting; avoid using a flash; and consider using apps like Northern Lights Photo Taker, NightCap Camera, ProCamera, and Slow Shutter for iOS, and for Android, ProCam X Lite.
Another crucial tip? Using a tripod.
However, experts advise that while capturing the northern lights can be rewarding, it’s essential to also enjoy the experience as it unfolds.
“While photographing the northern lights is rewarding, take time to immerse yourself in the experience without any gadgets,” the post continued. “Sometimes, fond memories are the best capture.”
