Viewing the Aurora Borealis in the dark skies of the PA Wilds
- by Guest Contributor
- December 2, 2024
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By Kalie Schmader
In May and October of this year, solar storms have presented northern Pennsylvania with multiple unique and rare opportunities to witness the Northern Lights from their backyards.
Image: The Northern Lights as seen from the Winslow Hill Viewing Area in Benezette. Photo courtesy of Ciara Vanalstine.
Without going into too much detail – the sun has an 11-year solar cycle. At the peak “maximum” in this cycle the sun experiences more frequent and higher intensity storms. We are now in the time of the sun cycle maximum.
Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights, or sometimes shortened to simply “the lights,” happens when the electrified gas from these solar storms collides into Earth’s magnetic field.
Until recently, most people who have wanted to view “the lights” in the Northern Hemisphere have needed to plan trips to Greenland, Iceland, Alaska, and northern Canada. Not in 2024!
This year, we have been hit (granted) with multiple large solar ejections, also known as solar flares. This has produced opportunities to witness these epic events first-hand, spontaneously, with barely having to travel. In fact, the lights could be seen within the Pennsylvania Wilds!
Image: The lights, as seen at Bull Run Vista in Lycoming County. Photo courtesy of Jamie Lynn.
Although optimal viewing times have fluctuated, what remains true is that the best viewing spaces are away from light pollution, under dark skies.
Dark sky conservation is a relatively new practice. Being outweighed by industrialization and security lighting, most urban planning has ultimately created a lot of light pollution.
However, there are multiple dark sky viewing areas in the Pennsylvania Wilds, including the world-famous Cherry Springs State Park!
Image: Astrophotography of Rho Ophiuchi taken at Cherry Springs State Park. Photo courtesy of Greg Brandes, @getawaygreg.
You too can do your part to protect our dark skies and minimize light pollution. The National Park Service suggests implementing simple features like motion sensor end lights, and directing lighting downwards to prevent light spilling into where it is not needed (the sky). Read more about preventing light pollution at the National Park Service’s Night Sky page.
There are many resources available for anyone looking to do their part, all resources point to two basic ideas: 1) Only lighting areas when necessary and 2) Using warm light shades and avoiding blue-white light.
Image: The Aurora Borealis in the northeastern United States. Photo courtesy of Greg Brandes, @getawaygreg.
These lighting adjustments also help migrating birds – but that’s worth another post. For now, we will stay captivated by the beauty of the seemingly magical Auroras.
Most auroras that have been visible in Pennsylvania have primarily been seen through a camera lens. While professional dark sky photographers have elaborate setups and take breathtaking photos, you can also capture your own photos with just a few adjustments to your smartphone.
In May earlier this year, the sun experienced a series of storms that sent numerous solar flares in Earth’s direction.
On October 9th, the sun once again emitted a large, single solar flare. This flare produced a geomagnetic storm that was visible with clear skies just after sunset on October 10th, allowing many more people to witness the joy of finally seeing the lights.
Image: Northern Lights as seen from a camera set up along Route 15 near Williamsport. Photo courtesy of Jamie Lynn.
If you want to witness the next Aurora Borealis event, limit the light pollution around your home, explore the Dark Skies in the Pennsylvania Wilds, and keep an ear out for the next solar flare heading our way!
About Kalie Schmader:
Kalie fell in love with the PA Wilds after moving to The Wilds with her parents and younger sister in 2006. When they found their soon to be home in Weedville, it was love at first hike. The girls would spend all their time wandering and exploring the vastness that was perpetually available; it was here that Kalie thought “everyone should get to experience this: wild, raw nature.” Graduating from Slippery Rock University with a Major in Environmental Studies and a Minor in Nonprofit Management, she set out on her mission. After graduating she decided to remain in Elk County. Now residing in St. Marys, she continues to spend her time soaking up the PA Wilds through kayaking, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and motorcycling through the mountains every chance she gets. Kalie now serves as the Secretary for Elk County Council on the Arts and launched her own business, GrACE by Kalie Anne, LLC. Focused on bringing Green Alternatives & Community Education to the forefront of the local economy Kalie aims to create a more sustainable future, ensuring everyone has a chance to experience the very same vastness she fell in love with. Her website, GrACEbyKalieAnne.com features directories that spotlight the businesses, products, and services offered in and around Elk County.
