Cities Covered
2
Monitoring locations across Iowa
Magnetic Latitude Range
50.2°–50.7° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 8.0–8.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Cedar Rapids
50.7° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Kp 10.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Des Moines
50.2° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Kp 10.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Aurora Status by City
Cedar Rapids
Aurora possible at 50.7° magnetic latitude during active periods. KP 6+ required for visibility. Strong storms can bring impressive displays.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Des Moines
Located at 50.2° MLAT with decent aurora opportunities. Geomagnetic storms with KP 6+ can produce visible displays. Monitor forecasts for storm alerts.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Best Viewing Season in Iowa
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 50.2°–50.7° MLAT
Cities Covered 2 locations
Winter Darkness 16-18 hours
Dark Sky Sites 0 Bortle 1-3
Peak Aurora Months
Primary Peak September–October
Secondary Peak March–April
Equinox Boost +35% activity
Photography Winter darkness
Track with AuroraMe
Coverage All 2 cities
Advance Notice 30 minutes
Weather Integration Cloud cover
Predictions Best viewing times
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Iowa?
Yes, Iowa offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Cedar Rapids (MLAT 50.7°) can see aurora at Kp 8.0+, while southern locations need Kp 8.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in Iowa?
Check our city pages for specific dark sky recommendations near each location.
