Cities Covered
2
Monitoring locations across Nevada
Magnetic Latitude Range
42.8°–45.5° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 9.0–9.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Reno
45.5° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Kp 10.0+ Optimal
Kp 11.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Las Vegas
42.8° 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
Reno
Located at 45.5° MLAT, aurora requires significant storm activity. KP 8+ events several times per year bring northern lights within view.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Las Vegas
Aurora events are rare at 42.8° magnetic latitude but spectacular when they occur. Major solar storms with KP 9+ can bring the display south.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Best Viewing Season in Nevada
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 42.8°–45.5° 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 Nevada?
Yes, Nevada offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Reno (MLAT 45.5°) 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 Nevada?
Check our city pages for specific dark sky recommendations near each location.
