How to Watch the Northern Lights and Spot the Autumn Star This Week
UNITED STATES — Stargazers have reason to look up this week as both the aurora borealis and the Autumn Star make special appearances in the night sky, offering rare opportunities for viewing if weather conditions cooperate.
Northern Lights on Display
Auroral activity could bring the northern lights to high-latitude regions tonight, Sept. 29, and into early October. While forecasters at NOAA say conditions will stay mostly quiet, even minor solar storms can light up the night sky with green and purple glows.
The best chances of seeing the aurora will be across northern Canada, Alaska, Greenland, and possibly northern Scotland, if skies remain clear.
For real-time updates, forecasters recommend checking NOAA’s 3-day aurora forecast.
The Autumn Star Rises
On Oct. 3, Fomalhaut, also known as the Autumn Star, will rise low in the southern sky, with Saturn shining nearby.
Fomalhaut is the brightest star in the constellation Piscis Austrinus and one of the most dazzling markers of the fall season, visible from mid-northern latitudes throughout October.
The star will be particularly noticeable during the approach of the harvest moon, which peaks on Oct. 6.
How to Watch
Experts say no special equipment is needed to enjoy either event.
- To see the aurora borealis, head to a location far from city lights and look toward the northern horizon. The lights may first appear faint before shifting into vivid colors as eyes adjust.
- To catch Fomalhaut, find a spot with a clear view of the southern sky shortly after sunset. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view, especially with Saturn nearby.
Capturing the Moment
Auroras and bright stars are visible to the naked eye, but photography can make the experience unforgettable. Smartphones equipped with Night Mode can capture faint light, while DSLRs or mirrorless cameras paired with a tripod allow for more detailed long exposures.
Have you ever seen the northern lights or spotted Fomalhaut in autumn skies? Share your photos and experiences in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
