Key Points
Being able to see auroras so deep into the tropics was possibly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there will almost certainly be more strong geomagnetic storms later this year, giving hope to aurora watchers around the world that more dazzling lights are possible in the near future...
This is because were quickly approaching solar maximum, the peak of our stars predictable 11-year cycle of activity..
Scientists predict that well reach solar maximum in July 2025, with heightened activity continuing for a while thereafter, giving us more than a year and a half with better-than-normal odds of spotting auroras at lower latitudes...
Its also likely that additional CMEs will produce spectacular auroras over Earths higher latitudes as we approach the maximumthough folks in places like Alaska, Canada, and the Nordic countries will have to wait until the sun finally sets again to see auroras..
If youre hoping to see auroras at lower latitudes again, cross your fingers for decent sunspots and a high Kp Index as we approach solar maximum next year..
