Cities Covered
3
Monitoring locations across Wisconsin
Magnetic Latitude Range
45.8°–53.5° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 7.0–9.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Green Bay
53.5° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 7.0+ Horizon
Kp 8.0+ Optimal
Kp 9.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Madison
52.0° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 7.0+ Horizon
Kp 8.0+ Optimal
Kp 9.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Milwaukee
45.8° 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
Green Bay
Aurora possible at 53.5° magnetic latitude during active periods. KP 5+ required for visibility. Strong storms can bring impressive displays.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Madison
Moderate aurora potential at 52.0° magnetic latitude. Northern lights appear during stronger storms when KP reaches 5+. Best chances in winter months.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Milwaukee
Located at 45.8° MLAT, aurora requires significant storm activity. KP 8+ events several times per year bring northern lights within view.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Best Viewing Season in Wisconsin
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 45.8°–53.5° MLAT
Cities Covered 3 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 3 cities
Advance Notice 30 minutes
Weather Integration Cloud cover
Predictions Best viewing times
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Green Bay (MLAT 53.5°) can see aurora at Kp 7.0+, while southern locations need Kp 9.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in Wisconsin?
Check our city pages for specific dark sky recommendations near each location.
