Cities Covered
1
Monitoring locations across Maine
Magnetic Latitude Range
54.1°–54.1° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 6.0–6.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Bangor
54.1° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 6.0+ Horizon
Kp 7.0+ Optimal
Kp 8.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Best Dark Sky Viewing Locations
Interactive map showing dark sky preserves and Bortle class sites in Maine. Click markers for details and directions.
Bortle 3
Acadia National Park
Coastal dark sky viewing
160mi from portland280mi from boston
Route 3 to Mount Desert Island
Bortle 2
Baxter State Park
Maine's darkest skies around Mt. Katahdin
240mi from portland85mi from bangor
Millinocket entrance, seasonal
Aurora Status by City
Best Viewing Season in Maine
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 54.1°–54.1° MLAT
Cities Covered 1 locations
Winter Darkness 16-18 hours
Dark Sky Sites 2 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 1 cities
Advance Notice 30 minutes
Weather Integration Cloud cover
Predictions Best viewing times
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Maine?
Yes, Maine offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Bangor (MLAT 54.1°) can see aurora at Kp 6.0+, while southern locations need Kp 6.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in Maine?
The darkest locations include Acadia National Park and Baxter State Park with Bortle class 2–3. These sites offer minimal light pollution for optimal aurora photography.
