Midmonth Check-In: November 2025 and the Northern Lights (again)!

                     

  Introduction and Monthly Reminders   

     The first half of November has been unusually warm in Utah. As I write this, the forecast calls for rain, cooler temperatures, and eventually snow. We'll see if that actually happens! I had a few missed opportunities to take out my new scope again, but I have enjoyed looking skyward to watch the planets, Moon, and constellations move above me. The highlight has been the return of the Northern Lights over Utah. More on this below.

    The remainder of November will bring the peak of the Leonid Meteor Shower on the 17th and a planetary conjunction between Venus and Mercury on the 24th. Among these, there will also be the opportunity to view the planets, Moon, and DSOs as long as the weather cooperates. There may also be another opportunity to view the Northern Lights if the chance presents itself. 

Northern Lights Over Utah 

      The Northern Lights returned to Utah during the second week of November. They were supposedly visible on November 11, 12, and 13, but due to inclement weather, I only saw them on Tuesday the 11th. There may also be an opportunity to view the aurora's glow on the 14th, 15th, and 16th, if the weather cooperates. The Sun is very active, with several strong and a few major solar flares that have already collided with and will continue to collide with the Earth. Observers should keep their eyes skyward!

    I was able to capture two images with my smartphone on the 11th from my backyard. Strangely enough, I tried to escape the light pollution and obstructions in my backyard only to find that the light pollution was worse in a field up the street from my house. 

Aurora, Airplane, Pleiades

     This first image shows the faint glow of the northern lights. The long streak of lights is an aircraft trail from the long exposure setting that I used. In line with the airplane trail is the bright star Capella to the left, and the Pleiades to the right. 

Northern Light glow

    This second image is my favorite, even though this monstrous house is in the foreground. This house is a sore spot for us and our neighbors, so let's focus on the Northern Lights! The bright star above the house is Capella. Be sure to check your favorite news feeds and weather apps to stay up to date on the aurora forecast for your location!

    

Now get outside and look up!