Skywatchers have two promising nights ahead as the Northern Lights may become visible on Sunday, December 7, and again on Monday, December 8, 2025. A mild geomagnetic storm triggered by recent solar activity is expected to expand the auroral oval, giving northern parts of the United States and southern Canada a chance to catch this rare glow. While the storm is not strong, even weak activity can push the lights farther south than usual — making these two nights worth watching.
Why December 7 and 8 Are Highlighted
Space weather forecasters are tracking charged particles released from the Sun earlier this week. As these particles reach Earth, they interact with our magnetic field and create the colorful aurora displays we know as the Northern Lights.
Forecast models show the strongest effects arriving late Sunday and slowly declining through Monday. That means:
December 7 (Sunday night) — Best chance for activity
December 8 (Monday night) — Still possible, but slightly weaker
Even with a mild storm, the timing is favorable, especially for northern states where the horizon remains dark and winter skies tend to be clearer.
Regions Most Likely to See the Aurora
If skies cooperate, observers on both Sunday and Monday nights may catch the aurora in the following areas:
Best chances
Alaska
Northern Canada
Far northern parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan
North Dakota and South Dakota
Montana and northern Wyoming
Upstate New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine
Lower but possible visibility
Higher elevations in Washington and Idaho
Areas with minimal light pollution across the northern U.S.
In these regions, the aurora may appear as a low greenish band on the horizon, especially during a mild storm. Photographers, however, may capture richer colors such as purple and red thanks to long-exposure settings.
What the Auroras Might Look Like on Dec 7 and 8
The upcoming geomagnetic storm is rated on the lower end of the scale, so expect subtle and soft auroras rather than dramatic dancing curtains.
Here’s what to expect:
December 7 (Sunday night):
The aurora may be slightly stronger, offering a faint glow or gentle streaks. In ideal dark conditions, you may see movement or shifting light.
December 8 (Monday night):
Activity is expected to taper off but could still produce a dim glow in northern states. Even a quiet aurora can surprise observers, especially if the storm strengthens unexpectedly.
Both nights have the potential to be rewarding for photographers, as cameras can pick up detail the eye cannot.
Conditions That Will Affect Visibility
To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights on both nights, keep these factors in mind:
Moonlight: A bright moon can wash out faint auroras. The moon phase on December 7–8 may reduce visibility slightly, so aim for darker windows of time.
Cloud cover: Clear skies are essential. Check your local forecast before heading out.
Light pollution: City lights make aurora spotting difficult. Rural areas or open fields work best.
Viewing direction: Always look toward the northern horizon, where the activity is most likely.
Tips for Watching the Aurora on December 7 and 8
1. Check space weather updates throughout the evening — conditions can change quickly.
2. Arrive early and stay at least an hour; auroras often appear in short bursts.
3. Use a tripod and long-exposure camera settings to enhance faint colors.
4. Dress warmly, as December nights can be extremely cold.
5. Avoid bright lights, including car headlights and phone screens; let your eyes adjust to the dark.
Why These Two Nights Matter
Seeing the Northern Lights outside the Arctic Circle is always a special opportunity. Having two consecutive nights — December 7 and December 8 — with potential aurora activity makes this weekend even more exciting for photographers, travelers, and casual skywatchers. Even a soft green glow is enough to create unforgettable winter memories.
If you live in a northern state or anywhere with dark, wide-open skies, make plans for both nights. Conditions may vary, but the possibility of catching the aurora is worth stepping outside, taking a moment, and looking up.