Solar eruption enhances chances of observing Aurora Borealis this weekend, while the Perseids meteor shower beginnings signal increased intensity.
Are you ready for a celestial spectacle this August? The Perseids meteor shower is set to peak on August 12-13, and with a potential G1 geomagnetic storm on August 8, the Northern Lights could put on an even more dazzling display. Here's how to capture these cosmic wonders with your camera.
First, equip yourself with a sturdy tripod and a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-field lens. This combination will help you capture both the aurora and meteors in all their glory [1][4]. Set your camera to manual mode with the lens focused to infinity, an aperture as wide as possible (around f/2.8), ISO between 800 and 1600, and a shutter speed around 25-30 seconds [1][2].
Next, aim your camera to include an interesting foreground, like trees or a barn, and point roughly toward the Perseus constellation. However, consider a wider angle to catch meteors anywhere in the sky [2]. Automate your shooting with an intervalometer or camera control software to take continuous long exposures through the night, maximizing your chances of capturing meteors and aurora activity without manual shutter pressing [1].
Remember to avoid light pollution and allow your eyes to adapt to the dark for at least 30-40 minutes before shooting. Use red-light flashlights to preserve your night vision [3]. Be prepared for aurora timing and intensity due to the G1 storm on August 8, which can cause moderate geomagnetic activity and enhance Northern Lights visibility at lower latitudes. Monitor space weather updates for the best timing [1][3].
NOAA predicts a potential minor G1 storm due to increased solar activity. The accuracy of the Northern Lights forecast often improves as the originally forecasted time gets closer [5]. The solar flare that occurred on August 5 could potentially increase the probability of seeing the Northern Lights this weekend [6].
If you're an avid night sky photographer, you might still be able to catch some meteors during the potential solar storm. Aurora chasers can use apps like Aurora to check NOAA forecasts and receive push notifications if the odds for seeing the Northern Lights increase [7]. The Northern Lights may be visible for several hours starting from August 8 at 15 UT (about 11 AM EST) [8].
Hillary K. Grigonis, an experienced writer about cameras and technology, leads the US coverage for Digital Camera World. With a decade of experience in the field, her work has appeared in various publications, including Business Insider, Digital Trends, Pocket-lint, Rangefinder, The Phoblographer, and more [9]. As a former Nikon shooter and current Fujifilm user, Hillary has tested a wide range of cameras and lenses across multiple brands [4].
So, gear up, stargazers! With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to capturing some stunning images of the Perseids meteor shower and the potential display of the Northern Lights. Happy shooting!
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5] [6] [Source 6] [7] [Source 7] [8] [Source 8] [9] [Source 9]
- The Perseids meteor shower, peaking on August 12-13, will offer a celestial spectacle with a potential G1 geomagnetic storm on August 8 enhancing the Northern Lights display.
- A sturdy tripod and a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-field lens are essential for capturing the aurora and meteors effectively.
- Set your camera to manual mode, keep the lens focused to infinity, open the aperture as much as possible, set ISO between 800 and 1600, and use a shutter speed around 25-30 seconds for best results.
- Include an interesting foreground in your shot, point your camera toward the Perseus constellation, and consider a wider angle to catch meteors anywhere in the sky.
- Use red-light flashlights to preserve your night vision, and automate your shooting with an intervalometer or camera control software for continuous exposures.
- Avoid light pollution, allow your eyes to adapt to the dark for at least 30-40 minutes before shooting, and be prepared for aurora timing and intensity due to the G1 storm on August 8.
- Monitor space weather updates for the best timing, as the solar flare that occurred on August 5 could potentially increase the probability of seeing the Northern Lights this weekend.
- Experienced writer Hillary K. Grigonis provides valuable insights about capturing the Perseids meteor shower and potential Northern Lights display with her decade of experience in camera technology and wide range of tested equipment.
