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Experiencing the Northern Lights in Minnesota

Maria (Angie) B.

Did you all see the Northern Lights last week? On May 10, 2024, many parts of the world experience the celestial ballet that is the Northern Lights, marveling at the unforgettable spectacle. The show on this night was particularly spectacular because it was powered by an impressively powerful geomagnetic storm, the likes of which have not been seen since 2005. This storm was triggered by multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, sending charged particles hurtling towards Earth and as they collided with the Earth's magnetic field, they created intense auroras visible much further south than usual. I have friends and family in the South, and they were able to see them and were treated to a dazzling display of greens, pinks, and purples dancing across their skies.

Here in Minnesota, the lights painted the sky with vibrant colors. although in my area they were less bright than in other parts of the Midwest. That said, we were treated to the Northern Lights in my part of Minnesota twice last March and April, but it was nothing like this. I follow a Northern Lights Alert Facebook group, so I knew the approximate time to see them. I am thankful to live in the country, so the best show of the night was right outside my front door, especially around 2:00 am, with the most vivid colors of the night.

This was as I walked out the door at 2:00 am, and it took my breath away.

But my favorite moment of the night was captured by this next photo. I was laying down on the grass taking in all the majesty, and I felt like I was in the sky. Just the most surreal experience, and one I will always remember.

The Northern Lights of May 10, 2024, will be remembered as one of the most remarkable displays in recent history. This rare event brought the beauty of the auroras to a wider audience, creating lasting memories and sparking a deeper interest in the wonders of our natural world. Whether you're an experienced aurora chaser or someone seeing them for the first time, the Northern Lights continue to captivate and inspire.

** Photos taken with iPhone 14 Pro (Night Mode)

Were you able to see the Nothern Lights in your area?

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