Northern Lights May Appear with November Super Moon in Wisconsin
Wisconsinites have a chance to witness the northern lights on November 5, alongside the November super full moon and the Taurids meteor shower. Wednesday night promises three different celestial events visible in Wisconsin.
November's super moon and meteor shower will be clearly visible, and there is also potential for the northern lights to appear. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), the aurora could be seen in northern Wisconsin on November 5, with visibility extending to the entire state on November 6.
Aurora Forecast and Viewing Conditions
- Wednesday’s Kp index is forecasted at 3, while Thursday’s increases to 5, reflecting auroral activity intensity.
- SWPC notes that when the Kp index is between 3 and 5, "the lights will be brighter and there will be more auroral activity," especially since Wisconsin is distant from the poles.
- The SWPC offers a short-term forecast tool that predicts the aurora’s location and intensity for 30 to 90 minutes ahead.
Weather and Visibility
Northern Wisconsin is expected to have mostly clear skies on November 5, including areas such as Green Bay and Appleton, according to the National Weather Service. However, rain showers across much of the state—including Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Appleton, and Wausau—could reduce the chances to see these events on November 6.
"Brighter and more auroral activity will be seen when the KP index ranges from three to five since they're further from the poles." – NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center
The combination of the super moon, meteor shower, and possible northern lights offers a unique astronomical experience for Wisconsin residents this week, weather permitting.
Summary: Wisconsin offers a rare chance to see the northern lights alongside a super moon and meteor shower, with best views in the northern region and variable weather affecting visibility statewide.