Tonight’s visibility depends on local conditions and solar activity. Here are practical steps and what to expect:

• Check short-term forecasts: Auroral activity is driven by the solar wind and geomagnetic indices (KP index). For best chances, aim for a KP of 4–5 or higher during dark hours, with clear skies. If recent solar storms were strong, sightings can occur farther south than usual, but this is less common.

• Local weather matters: Clear skies are essential. Even if the aurora is active, cloud cover or light pollution will ruin visibility. If your area has a clear forecast tonight, you’ll have a better shot.

• Timing: The prime hours are generally between local sunset and 2–3 a.m. in many regions, with late-night and pre-dawn hours often bringing the strongest activity. However, activity can occur at any dark hour if conditions align.

• Where to look: In high-latitude regions (typically above about 60°N) the aurora is more reliable. In unusually strong solar events, sightings have been reported farther south, but this is exceptional. Use dark skies away from city lights and faces of the aurora toward the northern horizon if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere.

• How to maximize your chance tonight:
  • Find a dark, open area with a clear northern horizon.
  • Monitor the local aurora forecast and sky conditions.
  • Be patient; the display can begin faint and intensify over time.

If you’d like, share your city or region and whether the forecast looks clear tonight, and I can give a tailored, step-by-step plan and what to expect given current activity patterns.