FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Re: Anticipating Aurorae

["Jim Warthman" <jim.warthman@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

As a novice, can someone explain the K index a bit?

In particular, would the K index (or any other indicator) be predictive, or
is it useful primarily as a sign that one should go outside right now and
look for an aurora? If the K index is predictive, how far in advance of the
aurora would a reasonably reliable prediction be seen?

Thanks!

-- Jim


> >> I think he said he has picked them up photographically when
> >> it is as low as 6.
>
>      I've been paying attention to the K index for the last two solar
> cycles.  Chris' numbers are about right:  I've seen faint
> colorless aurorae
> from Anderson Mesa when the K index was 6, but we do need figures
> of 8 or 9
> (which is as high as it goes) to see serious aurorae here, as with
> last night.

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