Cities Covered
2
Monitoring locations across North Carolina
Magnetic Latitude Range
44.5°–45.1° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 9.0–9.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Raleigh
45.1° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Kp 10.0+ Optimal
Kp 11.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Charlotte
44.5° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Kp 10.0+ Optimal
Kp 11.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Aurora Status by City
Raleigh
Occasional aurora viewing at 45.1° magnetic latitude. Strong geomagnetic storms (KP 8+) can push northern lights south to this location.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Charlotte
Rare aurora viewing at 44.5° magnetic latitude. Only major geomagnetic storms (KP 8+) bring northern lights this far south. Worth monitoring during solar maximum.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Best Viewing Season in North Carolina
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 44.5°–45.1° 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 North Carolina?
Yes, North Carolina offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Raleigh (MLAT 45.1°) can see aurora at Kp 9.0+, while southern locations need Kp 9.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in North Carolina?
Check our city pages for specific dark sky recommendations near each location.
