Chasing the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, but to truly maximize your chances of witnessing this magical phenomenon, you need the right tools. You need the best Northern Lights Apps. The good news? There are several apps and websites designed specifically to help aurora hunters stay informed with real-time forecasts, cloud cover maps, and other essential data. Whether you’re planning your first aurora trip or you’re an experienced Northern Lights chaser, these tools will make all the difference.
Best Aurora Forecast Apps
My Aurora Forecast & Alerts
Why It’s Great:
- Provides real-time KP index updates and aurora visibility forecasts.
- Includes cloud cover maps so you can check if skies will be clear.
- Sends notifications when auroral activity is strong in your area.
- Available on iOS & Android.
Aurora Forecast by SpaceWeatherLive
Why It’s Great:
- Displays solar wind speed and geomagnetic activity to predict auroras.
- Features a timeline prediction, so you know the best times to step outside.
- Offers historical aurora data to help analyze trends.
- Available on iOS & Android.
Northern Lights Forecast App
Why It’s Great:
- User-friendly interface with hourly aurora probability updates.
- GPS-based alerts notify you when activity is strong near your location.
- Includes a light pollution map to help find dark-sky locations.
- Available on iOS & Android.
Best Websites for Aurora Forecasts
NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center
Visit: https://www.swpc.noaa.gov
Why It’s Great:
- One of the most scientifically accurate aurora forecast sources available.
- Offers 3-day KP index forecasts and real-time solar storm data.
- Provides geomagnetic storm alerts, perfect for serious aurora chasers.
University of Alaska Fairbanks Aurora Forecast
Visit: https://www.gi.alaska.edu/aurora-forecast
Why It’s Great:
- One of the most detailed regional forecasts for North America and Europe.
- Probability maps show where auroras are strongest at any given time.
- Includes a short-term forecast for the next 60 minutes, ideal for last-minute planning.
Weather & Cloud Cover Apps
Since clear skies are essential for seeing the Northern Lights, these apps help track cloud cover and sky visibility conditions. You will also want to know what temperatures to expect.
Windy.com
Why It’s Great:
- Live cloud cover maps for any location worldwide.
- Wind speed data to help predict sky clarity.
- Includes temperature forecasts so you can dress appropriately for the cold.
- Available on iOS, Android, & Web.
Clear Outside
Why It’s Great:
- Provides detailed hourly cloud forecasts.
- Includes data for humidity, wind, and moon brightness—important for aurora photography.
- A go-to app for photographers looking for clear night skies.
- Available on iOS & Android.
Best Live Aurora Webcams
If you want to check real-time Northern Lights activity before heading out, these live webcams are invaluable:
Tromsø, Norway – Aurora Live Cam
Watch Live: https://www.nordnorge.com/en/webcams/
Why It’s Great:
- Streams live footage from one of the world’s best aurora hotspots.
- Helps confirm auroral activity before you go outside.
Abisko, Sweden – Aurora Sky Station Cam
Watch Live: https://www.auroraskystation.se/live-camera/
Why It’s Great:
- Captures real-time auroras from a designated dark-sky location.
- Perfect for monitoring aurora movement and intensity.
Fairbanks, Alaska – Geophysical Institute Aurora Cam
Watch Live: https://www.gi.alaska.edu/aurora-forecast
Why It’s Great:
- Direct connection to the University of Alaska’s aurora research center.
- A reliable way to track auroras in North America.
Best Apps for Northern Lights Photography
Capturing the Northern Lights requires a bit of planning and the right settings. These apps help you get the perfect shot.
PhotoPills
Why It’s Great:
- Helps photographers plan the perfect aurora shot with exposure guides.
- Features an augmented reality (AR) mode to predict exactly where the sun, moon, and even the Milky Way will be at any given time.
- Available on iOS & Android.
NightCap Camera (for iPhone users)
Why It’s Great:
- Allows manual exposure settings optimized for night photography.
- Easy to use for beginners capturing auroras on a smartphone.
- Available on iOS.
Your Essential Toolkit for Aurora Chasing
By using these apps and websites, you can significantly increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights while avoiding unnecessary guesswork. Whether you’re tracking geomagnetic storms, checking cloud cover, or planning the perfect aurora photo, these tools will make your Northern Lights experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Do you have another favorite app or website that helps you track the Northern Lights? Share your recommendations with us!