Alaska
Can you see the northern lights in Alaska tonight?
Wait for dark.
Kp is 0.3. Fairbanks needs Kp 1+ for the oval overhead — right now it’s low on the northern horizon.
Tonight's peak is forecast around Kp 2.3 (Quiet). The forecast still depends on darkness, cloud and the moon at your exact spot.
FairbanksLive northern lights forecasts for 19 places across Alaska, ordered by how little geomagnetic activity each one needs — from Fairbanks (Kp 1+) to Kodiak (Kp 4+). Pick a place for tonight's live odds, or get an instant answer for your exact location.
Tonight's forecasts across Alaska
Showing 19
What Kp does Alaska need?
Fairbanks is the easiest place in Alaska to catch the aurora — it needs Kp 1 or above before the oval climbs into view, which happens most clear, dark nights through the season. Kodiak needs Kp 4+. A high Kp is never the whole story though: you also need darkness, clear sky and little moonlight.
Check tonight's live verdict for any spot in Alaska.
Plan the trip
Tours, stays and wheels
Some links below are paid affiliate links. If you book a tour, reserve a stay or buy gear through them, we may earn a commission — it never costs you anything extra and helps keep the forecast free.
- Klook
Aurora chasing tours
Guided minibus & boat tours worldwide that drive you to the clearest, darkest skies on the night.
See tonight's tours - Booking.com
Glass igloos & aurora cabins
Heated glass-roof rooms across Lapland, Iceland and the Arctic — watch the lights from bed.
Find stays - Discover Cars
Rent a car to chase clear skies
Self-drive away from town glow to the dark-sky spots. Compare every local supplier in one place.
Compare cars - SafetyWing
Cover the trip
Aurora trips are remote, cold and weather-dependent — travel medical cover from a few dollars a day.
Get covered