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In 2024, the skies over Southern Alberta came alive with enchanting aurora borealis displays, mesmerizing both night owls and stargazers.
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With vibrant greens and pinks alongside rare red and yellow shades, these celestial phenomena, prompted by heightened solar activity, provided unforgettable experiences. For numerous individuals, it was a year to gaze upward and admire nature’s craftsmanship.
Roland Dechesne from the Calgary Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada termed 2024 as a remarkable year for auroras.
“The most notable occurrences were in May on two consecutive nights, May 10–11 and May 11–12, along with another on October 10–11. These were among the top ten spectacles of a lifetime.”
Other evenings showcased subtler yet equally stunning displays. For example, October 7–8 included precursor substorms leading into the more significant October 10–11 event, thrilling committed aurora enthusiasts who ventured out in the pre-dawn hours. Even quieter evenings, like December 2, offered unexpected displays that enchanted local photographers.
Auroras form when electrically charged particles from the sun engage with Earth’s magnetic field, a phenomenon closely associated with solar activity.
“This year, we’ve observed storms stemming from large sunspots,” Dechesne clarified. “The May event, for instance, was connected to solar flares—rapid, intense bursts of energy on the sun’s surface. Though the particles travel at high velocities, it takes two or three days to reach Earth.”
Nasa reported that Solar Cycle 25 reached its peak in October, a phase anticipated to extend into the following summer. This cycle commenced in late 2019 and surpassed earlier forecasts, with sunspot numbers consistently at the upper range of projections.
“Interestingly, as the cycle advances, the sunspot groups migrate closer to the sun’s equator,” Dechesne indicated. “This essentially ‘targets’ any mass ejections more directly toward Earth, keeping us in the so-called ‘strike zone’ for auroras even as sunspot counts start to decline.”
Alberta’s aurora-chasing community has been instrumental in documenting the displays of 2024. The Alberta Aurora Chasers Facebook group, established by Airdrie resident Chris Ratzlaff, has transformed into a hub for real-time information, breathtaking photographs, and tips for aurora chasing.
“I frequently check that group to verify what I’m observing on apps like Spaceweather Live,” Dechesne mentioned. “Even on quieter evenings, members share astonishing photos. If I notice activity reported from Calgary or further south, I know it’s time to venture out.”
The STEVE phenomenon (strong thermal emission velocity enhancement), initially documented in Alberta in 2016, persists as a significant research area. It illustrates how citizen scientists contribute to global knowledge.
New advancements, such as smartphone-based ionospheric measurements, have improved scientists’ abilities to track solar storm activity.
“From detailed images to GPS signal variations, the public plays a crucial role in enhancing our comprehension of auroras,” Dechesne said.
With the rising interest in aurora chasing, safety and etiquette have become essential factors.
“Dress appropriately for the climate, have the correct vehicle, and inform someone about your destination,” Dechesne advised. “Respect private property, and avoid stopping on highways. Aurora chasing is exhilarating, but it must be conducted safely.”
Overcrowding and safety issues have arisen in areas like Elk Island Park near Edmonton, where increased vehicle traffic has resulted in wildlife casualties. Dechesne underscored the importance of planning to avert similar troubles in southern Alberta.
For those eager to witness an aurora in 2025, Dechesne suggests heading east of urban centers such as Calgary and Airdrie, where light pollution is less significant.
“In the early evening, gentle auroras often grace the north-northeast horizon,” he stated. “Even on stronger nights, escaping city lights will amplify the brilliance and intricacies of the display.”
No special gear is necessary—just a smartphone for capturing images, clear skies, and patience.
As 2024 concludes, the auroras have left a lasting impression on southern Alberta, reminding residents of the allure and enigma of the night sky.
With Solar Cycle 25 continuing its peak phase, 2025 promises to offer even more chances to experience the wonder of the northern lights.
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