Calgary 
Depending on your location in Canada, you could be in for a celestial treat of mesmerizing Northern Light displays tonight.
Due to coronal mass ejection, Space Weather Canada has issued a major geomagnetic storm watch effective from October 3, 9 p.m. to October 4, 12 p.m. EDT.
The agency on the website states, “An ejection of the Sun’s material (coronal mass ejection) was observed on 01 OCT 2024. The ejected material is Earth directed and is expected to affect Earth on 03-04 OCT 2024, resulting in disturbed geomagnetic conditions.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has also issued a Geomagnetic Storm Watch. This alert follows the detection of a coronal mass ejection (CME), a significant eruption of solar material, which is expected to hit Earth and increase geomagnetic activity during the said period.
NOAA has classified the storm a G3, a strong Geomagnetic Storm.
According to the NOAA, the aurora may become visible in many of the northern states of the United States. This means that all of Canada may get to spot the lights. Those located at higher altitudes will see it overhead, while those located closer to the United States may spot it nearer to the northern horizon.
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, occur when charged particles from the Sun collide with Earth’s atmosphere. The magnetic field directs these particles toward the poles, where they interact with gases like oxygen and nitrogen, creating colourful lights. This results in shimmering displays of green, pink, and purple hues, lighting up the night sky in a stunning spectacle.
When & How to See Tonight’s Northern Lights:
When:
Space Weather Canada‘s current major geomagnetic storm watch is in effect until October 4, 12 p.m. EDT
Where & How to See:
To enjoy a clear view of Nothern Lights, you should choose a location free of light pollution. The relentless glow from city lights often masks the subtle luminance of low-intensity auroras, rendering them invisible against the urban backdrop.
The new moon was yesterday, and the waxing crescent is only 1.2% full, making it easy for skygazers to watch for the showers if the sky is clear.
To find reasonably dark areas near your location, check the Darkskyfinder map. Search for a park (or a safe place with no streetlights away from roads/traffic) within the areas coloured dark (mustard), yellow, green, blue, grey or black (transparent). Before travelling, please check the cloud cover.
