Northern lights in North Dakota are occasional: this far south they need a geomagnetic storm of Kp 6 or more. Of the 2 locations AuroraMe tracks in North Dakota, Fargo has the best chance.
Cities Covered
2
Magnetic Latitude Range
55.4°–55.8° MLAT
Required Kp Index
Kp 6.0–6.0
Unlikely
Best chance in North Dakota tonight: Fargo
AuroraMe watches Kp, clouds and darkness windows so you know when to go outside.
Kp Requirements by Location
Fargo
55.8° MLAT
Kp 6.0+ Horizon
Kp 7.0+ Optimal
Kp 8.0+ Bright
Bismarck
55.4° MLAT
Kp 6.0+ Horizon
Kp 7.0+ Optimal
Kp 8.0+ Bright
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Best Dark Sky Viewing Locations
Interactive map showing dark sky preserves and Bortle class sites in North Dakota. Click markers for details and directions.
Bortle 2
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Badlands with minimal light pollution
130mi from bismarck220mi from fargo
Interstate 94 to Medora
Aurora Status by City
Best Viewing Season in North Dakota
Geographic Advantages
Mean astronomical darkness at Bismarck, Dec–Feb 10.2–11.7 hours
Dark Sky Sites 1 Bortle 1-3
Peak Aurora Months
Estimates for Bismarck
September 0.41 clear nights, 47.5% cloud
October 0.37 clear nights, 59.4% cloud
November 0.36 clear nights, 62.8% cloud
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in North Dakota?
Yes, North Dakota offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Fargo (MLAT 55.8°) can see aurora at Kp 6.0+, while southern locations need Kp 6.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in North Dakota?
The darkest locations include Theodore Roosevelt National Park with Bortle class 2–2. These sites offer minimal light pollution for optimal aurora photography.
Learn More About the Northern Lights
Use the aurora borealis forecast, check northern lights tonight, or open the live aurora map and Kp tracker.
