Aurora chasing is a blend of science, forecasting, preparation, and instinct. Whether you’re planning a self-guided Aurora adventure or simply want to stay informed about space weather and upcoming Aurora activity, having the right resources is crucial.

This chapter compiles the best websites, apps, and tools to help you track, plan, and experience the Northern Lights like an expert.

1. Space Weather & Aurora Forecasting Websites

Tracking solar activity and geomagnetic storms is essential for predicting Aurora visibility. These websites provide real-time space weather data, solar wind measurements, and forecast models to help determine the best nights for Aurora chasing.

🔍 Best Websites for Aurora Forecasting & Space Weather:

🌍 SpaceWeatherLive – Real-time solar wind data, Kp index predictions, and solar storm alerts.
🌍 NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center – Aurora forecasts, solar activity reports, and space weather alerts.
🌍 NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) – High-resolution monitoring of solar storms.
🌍 Aurora Forecast – University of Alaska – Real-time Kp index updates and Northern Lights forecast maps.
🌍 EISCAT (European Incoherent Scatter Scientific Association) – Advanced scientific data on Earth’s upper atmosphere and Aurora formation.

🌟 Pro Tip: Bookmark multiple space weather sites and cross-check data from different sources before heading out.

2. Best Aurora Forecasting Apps

For on-the-go forecasting, smartphone apps provide real-time updates on solar activity, cloud cover predictions, and Aurora strength indicators.

📱 Best Aurora Apps for iOS & Android:

📱 My Aurora Forecast – Kp index updates, cloud cover maps, and real-time Aurora alerts.
📱 Aurora Alerts – Northern Lights – Tracks solar wind activity and sends notifications when conditions are ideal.
📱 SpaceWeatherLive App – Detailed solar wind data, IMF Bz values, and Kp index trends.
📱 Windy – Essential for cloud cover tracking to find clear skies.
📱 Yr.no – Norwegian Meteorological Institute, one of the most reliable Arctic weather forecasting apps.

🌟 Pro Tip: Set up custom alerts on My Aurora Forecast or Aurora Alerts to receive instant notifications when conditions are ideal.

3. Cloud Cover & Weather Forecasting

Even if solar activity is strong, cloud cover can block the Aurora entirely. Checking weather forecasts throughout the day is essential to adjust your plans.

☁️ Best Websites for Arctic Weather & Cloud Cover Tracking:

🌍 Yr.no – Norway’s leading weather service for detailed cloud cover forecasts.
🌍 Windy.com – Excellent for visualising wind patterns, cloud movement, and precipitation levels.
🌍 Foreca – Provides hourly weather predictions for Aurora regions.
🌍 Met Office UK Aurora Forecast – Trusted Northern Hemisphere Aurora prediction service.

🌟 Pro Tip: Compare multiple weather sources to get a more accurate picture of cloud movement, especially when making last-minute location decisions.

4. Online Aurora Live Cams

If you’re unable to travel, you can still experience the Northern Lights through live-streaming webcams from Aurora hotspots worldwide.

📷 Best Live Aurora Webcams:

📷 Porjus Aurora Cam (Sweden) – One of the best real-time feeds from Swedish Lapland.
📷 Sodankylä Aurora Live Cam (Finland) – Hosted by the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory, specialising in Aurora research.
📷 Tromsø Live Cam (Norway) – A fantastic live stream from one of Norway’s top Aurora destinations.
📷 Fairbanks, Alaska – Geophysical Institute – Offers live feeds from multiple Alaskan locations.
📷 Yellowknife Aurora Cam (Canada) – Covers one of Canada’s best Northern Lights viewing locations.

🌟 Pro Tip: Watching Aurora webcams is a great way to practice forecasting skills by comparing live observations with space weather predictions.

5. Advanced Space Weather Resources for Experts

For those who want deeper insights into space weather and geomagnetic activity, these scientific resources provide detailed technical data.

🔬 Scientific Space Weather Resources:

🔬 Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) – Monitors solar activity and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
📡 GONG Magnetogram Data – Real-time solar magnetic field measurements.
🌐 International Space Environment Service (ISES) – Advanced space weather forecasts for researchers.
📊 SuperMAG Magnetometer Network – Tracks geomagnetic storms in real time.

🌟 Pro Tip: If you’re serious about Aurora chasing, learning how to read solar wind charts and IMF Bz values will give you a major forecasting advantage.

Final Thoughts

With the right tools, knowledge, and preparation, you can take your Aurora chasing experience to the next level. By leveraging space weather forecasts, cloud tracking services, and expert insights, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of every opportunity to witness the magic of the Northern Lights.

🌍 Final Takeaway: The best Aurora chasers don’t just rely on forecasts—they learn how to interpret data, read the skies, and trust their instincts.