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Multiple coronal mass ejections from the Sun were predicted to reach Earth's magnetosphere, potentially triggering aurora borealis displays visible across North America on the night of June 4-5. Coronal mass ejections are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun's corona that can interact with Earth's magnetic field to produce auroral activity at lower latitudes than usual. The convergence of multiple CMEs increased the likelihood of a significant geomagnetic storm.
Why it matters
This event provided an opportunity for aurora viewing at unusually low latitudes across the United States, allowing more people to witness this natural phenomenon. Geomagnetic storms from CMEs can also affect satellite operations, GPS systems, and power grids, making advance warning important for infrastructure protection.
Multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) could spark a significant auroral display over North America Thursday night.
The post Auroras May Dance Over the U.S. Thursday Night, June 4-5 appeared first on Sky & Telescope.
Source: Auroras May Dance Over the U.S. Thursday Night, June 4-5