The University of Alaska"s Geophysical Institute initially predicted that the aurora borealis would be “active” and visible in 17 states on July 12 and 13. However, the forecast has been adjusted and now expects the lights to be visible in fewer places than originally anticipated. Parts of Alaska, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine, as well as parts of Canada, are still expected to have the opportunity to witness the northern lights. The institute explains that the active conditions were initially predicted due to features on the sun that produce such activity, which typically last 1-3 months. However, the solar features have diminished over the past month, resulting in the lowered expectations. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also initially predicted high activity for this week but has since downgraded its forecast. NOAA"s Space Weather Prediction Center project manager, Bryan Brasher, mentioned a particular coronal hole that previously showed elevated activity. However, upon analysis, it was discovered that the hole had diminished, leading to adjustments in the forecast. The scale used to measure geomagnetic storms is called "the G scale," ranging from a minor storm at G1 to an extreme storm at G5. The original forecast was at a G2, but NOAA has now lowered it to a G1 and even below the G scale. Brasher mentioned that a G3 or a G4 storm would be necessary to see the northern lights from mid-latitude states. The best time to see the lights is when the sky is clear and dark, preferably closest to the equinox. Auroras usually occur every 27 days and are a result of solar storms. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provides information on the lights" movement and states that the best viewing time is usually within an hour or two of midnight, between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Overall, while the initial predictions were optimistic about the visibility of the northern lights in multiple states, the forecast has been adjusted due to diminished solar activity. Nonetheless, parts of Alaska, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine, as well as certain areas in Canada, still have the chance to witness the stunning aurora borealis.