Aurora KP Model Map - Northern Lights Alaska

Aurora Map Guide

Data Source: NOAA's OVATION Prime model provides real-time aurora probability forecasts.

Color Gradient: Green (low) → Yellow (medium) → Red (high) indicates aurora intensity and probability.

Grid Cells: Each colored square represents aurora activity in that geographic area.

Probability: Shows the likelihood of seeing aurora at that location (0-100%).

Energy Deposition: Measured in ergs/cm², indicates the strength of aurora activity.

Purpose: Shows where observers on Earth's surface can see aurora at a given altitude on their northern (or southern) horizon.

Physics:

Calculation Steps:

Extract boundary: Find the southern edge of the aurora oval (lowest latitude with activity)
Calculate visibility angle: θ = arccos(R / (R + h))
Calculate distance: d = R × θ (surface distance in km)
Offset southward: Move each boundary point south by distance d
Connect points: Form the red View Line

Example:

For 110 km altitude:

Altitude Effect: Higher altitude (250 km) = larger visibility distance = line extends further south = more viewing area

Day/Night Line: Shows the solar terminator - the boundary between day and night. The night side is shaded darker.

Polar Regions: Toggle between Northern (Aurora Borealis) and Southern (Aurora Australis) hemispheres.

Time Controls: View current conditions, 30-minute forecast, 3-day forecast, historical data, or extended forecasts.

Intensity Legend: Reference the color gradient to interpret aurora probability and energy levels.

1. Check Current Conditions: Look at the "Live" view to see real-time aurora activity.

2. Find Your Location: Locate your position on the map to see local aurora probability.

3. View Line Guide: If you're south of the red View Line, you may see aurora on your northern horizon.

4. Check Forecast: Use the 3-day forecast to plan aurora viewing opportunities.

5. Adjust Altitude: Change the View Line altitude (110-250 km) to see different viewing ranges.

Real-time: Data updates every 5-15 minutes from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center.

Forecast: 3-day forecasts are based on solar wind and geomagnetic activity predictions.

View Line: Calculated using spherical Earth geometry - accurate for planning purposes.

Note: Actual aurora visibility depends on local weather, light pollution, and solar activity.