Cities Covered
2
Monitoring locations across Minnesota
Magnetic Latitude Range
53.6°–55.5° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 6.0–7.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Duluth
55.5° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 6.0+ Horizon
Kp 7.0+ Optimal
Kp 8.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Minneapolis
53.6° 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 Minnesota. Click markers for details and directions.
Bortle 1
Boundary Waters
Pristine wilderness with exceptional darkness
110mi from duluth260mi from minneapolis
Superior National Forest roads
Bortle 2
Voyageurs National Park
Dark skies over lakes and forests
150mi from duluth300mi from minneapolis
Highway 53 to park entrances
Aurora Status by City
Best Viewing Season in Minnesota
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 53.6°–55.5° MLAT
Cities Covered 2 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 2 cities
Advance Notice 30 minutes
Weather Integration Cloud cover
Predictions Best viewing times
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Duluth (MLAT 55.5°) can see aurora at Kp 6.0+, while southern locations need Kp 7.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in Minnesota?
The darkest locations include Boundary Waters and Voyageurs National Park with Bortle class 1–2. These sites offer minimal light pollution for optimal aurora photography.
