Northern lights to ring in 2025? Look to the skies in these 18 states on New Year’s Eve.

Best way to see the lights
The NOAA says get away from city lights.

Even if the aurora is active during the day, the best viewing is usually around midnight local time. A full moon can dull the aurora, but the next full moon isn’t until Jan. 13.

If you’re using maps, the NOAA says the aurora doesn’t have to be overhead to be seen, especially if it’s bright and the weather’s good.

Solar cycle in 2025
2024 was big for solar news. In April, a solar eclipse was seen by millions. Then came northern and southern lights from CMEs.

The solar peak passed in October, and no eclipses are forecast for 2025, but it’ll still feel the solar activity from this year.