20 /120
|
Weak |
10.5nT |
Charging |
|
Weak |
Key Insights
The Aurora is covering Iceland now until approximately 02:30, and is currently charging. The Aurora will remain at the same reach over the next 47 minutes. The current activity is not meeting the forecast. Read detailed condition insights below.
Current Northern Lights Conditions in Iceland
Kp
1-2
|
The current Aurora is a Kp1-2 (on a scale of 0-9) and is covering all of Iceland. Viewed from Reykjavík, when active, the Aurora is positioned above the NNW horizon. When viewing the Aurora from the South Coast, seek higher ground and avoid mountains in a NNE-NNW direction where possible. Aurora Conditions in 47 minutes: The Aurora will remain at the same reach. |
Charging
|
Aurora activity is building up. When activity is building, energy is being gathered and a release may follow shortly if solar wind conditions are good, ie. Bz has been negative. Some Aurora activity might be visible on camera if nT is positive 50nT or higher. |
Northern Lights Solar Wind Data
Speed |
Density |
IMF Bt |
IMF Bz |
539.9km/s | 0.41p/cm3 | 6.58nT | 4.59nT |
Solar Wind & Bz Analysis


20 /120
|
Weak |
Solar wind conditions have been very weak with positive polarity. Visible aurora displays unlikely.
The Bz index is currently positive (northward). Aurora activity is unlikely to build significantly unless conditions turn negative.
Magnetometer Data
-81.8 nT
|
Weakening
|
|
10.5 nT
|
Charging
|
Aurora Chasers Info
This magnetometer section contains data from both the magnetometer in Tromsø and the magnetometer in Reykjavík (Leirvogi). These locations are at latitudes from 69 to 64 degrees north – the Arctic Circle is at 66 degrees north – and allow us to measure aurora activity over a wide area. With these two measurements, it is possible to identify the intensity and also the approximate location of the lights.
Tromsø (69° N): When the Tromsø magnetometer shows increased activity, increased aurora activity can be expected towards the northern (NNE to NNW) horizon. However, weather and atmospheric conditions can affect visibility.
Reykjavík (64° N): Increased readings here indicate northern lights near Iceland, often visible towards the Big Dipper (Ursa Major) (Kp2 to Kp3-4) or directly overhead or towards the southern horizon (Kp4 or higher), when viewed from Reykjavík. The further North you are in Iceland, the better the chances of seeing strong northern lights even with low Kp factors. Staying in the South, you need at least Kp2.
Magnetometer Reading Guide:
Inactivity: Auroras typically become visible when magnetometer readings approach or exceed ±50nT.
Charging Phase: When magnetometers rise above 50nT, it suggests that geomagnetic activity is increasing, and the field is "charging".
Substorm Activity (Active or Very Active): These are usually indicated by sharp drops in magnetometer readings, measuring a decline of 100nT from the starting position or falling below -100nT. Very active substorms will drop well below -250nT and lower.
Weakening Phase: After a substorm, if readings rise from below a negative value, it indicates that the energy is dissipating.
Key Points:
Positive readings above 50nT that are rising generally indicate building geomagnetic activity.
Visibility of the aurora by eye starts from ±50nT, depending on atmospheric conditions, light pollution and other factors.
Readings around or above 100nT suggest auroras might be visible whilst continuing to build energy.
Significant drops below -100nT or sudden changes in readings often signal substorm activity, meaning strong aurora displays.
By monitoring these readings, you can better predict and observe the mesmerizing auroras, whether you're a novice or a seasoned chaser. Always consider local weather conditions and light pollution for the best viewing experience.
Aurora Conditions in 47 minutes
Kp
1-2
|
The Aurora will remain at the same reach. The Kp1-2 will cover all of Iceland from 00:28. Viewed from Reykjavík, when active, the Aurora will be positioned above the NNW horizon. When viewing the Aurora from the South Coast, seek higher ground and avoid mountains in a NNE-NNW direction where possible. |
Northern Lights Solar Wind Data
Speed |
Density |
IMF Bt |
IMF Bz |
492.9km/s | 0.26p/cm3 | 6.38nT | 3.47nT |
Solar Wind & Bz Analysis


20 /120
|
Weak |
The Solar Wind quality remains steady over the next 47 minutes.
The Bz index is forecasted to remain positive (northward), making significant aurora activity unlikely unless conditions become negative.
3-Day Aurora Forecast by NOAA
TODAY | |||||
Time UTC | Actual Kp | Cond. met? | Jul 18 | Jul 19 | Jul 20 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
00:00-03:00 |
Kp
2-3
|
Over |
Kp
2
|
Kp
3
|
Kp
1-2
|
03:00-06:00 |
Kp
2
|
Over |
Kp
1
|
Kp
3
|
Kp
3
|
06:00-09:00 |
Kp
2-3
|
Over |
Kp
2
|
Kp
2-3
|
Kp
2-3
|
09:00-12:00 |
Kp
3-4
|
Over |
Kp
2-3
|
Kp
2-3
|
Kp
1-2
|
12:00-15:00 |
Kp
3-4
|
Yes |
Kp
3-4
|
Kp
1-2
|
Kp
1-2
|
15:00-18:00 |
Kp
3-4
|
Over |
Kp
2
|
Kp
1-2
|
Kp
0-1
|
18:00-21:00 |
Kp
3-4
|
Over |
Kp
2-3
|
Kp
1
|
Kp
1-2
|
21:00-00:00 |
Kp
2
|
No |
Kp
2-3
|
Kp
2
|
Kp
2
|
Source: SWPC NOAA 3-day Forecast | |||||
Details (English only): "No Kp4–5 or greater geomagnetic storms are expected. No significant transient or recurrent solar wind features are forecast." | |||||