Cities Covered
1
Monitoring locations across Michigan
Magnetic Latitude Range
51.5°–51.5° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 7.0–7.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Detroit
51.5° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 7.0+ Horizon
Kp 8.0+ Optimal
Kp 9.0+ 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 Michigan. Click markers for details and directions.
Bortle 2
Headlands International Dark Sky Park
Designated Dark Sky Park on Lake Michigan
2mi from mackinaw city280mi from detroit
US-31 near Mackinaw City
Bortle 2
Keweenaw Peninsula
Northernmost Michigan with dark skies
110mi from marquette250mi from green bay
US-41 to Copper Harbor
Aurora Status by City
Best Viewing Season in Michigan
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 51.5°–51.5° 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 Michigan?
Yes, Michigan offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Detroit (MLAT 51.5°) can see aurora at Kp 7.0+, while southern locations need Kp 7.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in Michigan?
The darkest locations include Headlands International Dark Sky Park and Keweenaw Peninsula with Bortle class 2–2. These sites offer minimal light pollution for optimal aurora photography.
