Improve your chances of seeing the aurora with a good Northern Lights app. We review several apps for forecasting and predicting aurora borealis, with tips on choosing the best mobile app for your needs.
In the days before smartphones and the Internet, hunting for the elusive northern lights was a more difficult process. There were very few resources that you could use to accurately predict when the auroras may appear over the horizon. As a result, you could spend days waiting for the ghostly lights to appear, to no avail. It wasn’t uncommon to visit the north, and spend an entire week hunting for the auroras, only to be disappointed with a lackluster appearance or two.
Today, however, thanks to the many advents in mobile technology, it’s possible to accurately forecast whether the northern lights will make an appearance or not, and plan a trip around that prediction. But not all aurora borealis forecasting apps are created equal.
In this article, we discuss the best northern lights app options available, and the criteria you should look for when choosing one.
How to Choose a Good Northern Lights App
No two northern lights forecasting apps are created equal. They all have unique features that make them helpful in some ways, but this does not always equate to accuracy. When determining which forecasting app for northern lights to use, there are several key factors to take into consideration. The most important of these is accuracy, followed by reliability, the graphical user interface, and then the individual features.
Essential Criteria for Aurora Borealis App
In order of importance, the criteria you should consider when choosing an aurora borealis app are:
- Accuracy
- Reliability
- User Interface
- App Features
#1 Accuracy
Accuracy is one of the most important factors when selecting an aurora forecasting app. It’s important to remember that there are a number of different factors that are involved in forecasting the appearance of the elusive lights. Different apps use different algorithms to calculate the odds of the lights’ appearance; some are more accurate than others.
#2 Reliability
Being accurate some of the time is not as important as being reliable. While an app for northern lights may advertise a high level of accuracy, they may not be able to do this consistently. Sometimes, it is better to choose an aurora app with a more reliable algorithm, than it is to choose an app with a more accurate algorithm.
#3 User Interface
Perhaps one of the biggest differences between any of the available forecasting apps is the graphical user interface. A good aurora borealis app will have a user-friendly interface, that is simple to learn and ensures both accurate and reliable data forecasts in real-time. Keep in mind, that the best interfaces aren’t always the best looking, rather they simply have more intuitive functionalities.
#4 Features
Lastly, you have the features of individual forecasting apps. While some apps focus solely on the prediction of the appearance of the northern lights, other applications offer access to an entire community of other aurora hunters, who can make it easier to find the best locations to view the elusive lights.
The Best Northern Lights App Options
While it would be great to simply pick one northern lights forecasting app, there are so many differences between the various apps, that it makes selecting the best nearly impossible. However, here are three of the most popular apps for forecasting the appearance of the northern lights:
- My Aurora Forecast & Alerts
- Northern Lights Aurora Forecast
- Norway Lights (for Norwegian regions only)
Next, we’ll share a selection of northern lights app options and discuss how they perform on each of these essential criteria: accuracy, reliability, user interface and features.
My Aurora Forecast & Alerts
- App: My Aurora Forecast & Alerts
- Developer: JRustonApps B.V.
- Android: Get My Aurora Forecasts & Alerts for Android on Google Play
- iOS: Get My Aurora Forecasts & Alerts for iOS on the App Store
- Cost: Free
Accuracy
The My Aurora Forecast application is one of the more accurate apps available for both Android and Apple devices. It provides both short-term as well as long-term forecasting options, which makes it perfect for planning your next aurora hunt.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, the My Aurora Forecast app is also one of the most reliable. While there are some applications that are more accurate and reliable, they also require a paid subscription to get the information you need.
User Interface
With so many great features, you may think that the user interface is intuitive. However, because of the sheer number of features, some users may feel overwhelmed by the overall user interface.
Features
- KP Index
- World Map
- Choose Your Location
- Free Push Notifications
- Short-Term Forecasts
- Long-Term Forecast
- Solar Wind Statistics
- View Web Cams from around the World
- Tour Information
- Available for iPhone, iPad, and Android Devices
- No In-App Purchases
Why We Chose It
Whether you are a seasonal tourist or an experienced aurora watcher, you will find that the My Aurora Forecast is one of the best mobile applications available today. Not only does it offer short-term and long-term aurora forecasts, but it offers a wide array of useful information that will help you increase the chances of viewing the elusive lights.
As long as you have Internet access, you will get a constant update of the KP index, in real-time. The application will also send you push notifications so you do not miss any important information. Thanks to the long list of locations to choose from, the My Aurora Forecast app is perfect for anyone who is traveling the world in order to capture a glimpse of the elusive lights.
Northern Light Aurora Forecast
- App: Northern Light Aurora Forecast
- Developer: Letovaltsev Maxim
- Android: Get Northern Lights Aurora Forecast for Android on Google Play
- iOS: Get Northern Lights Aurora Forecast for iOS on the App Store
- Cost: Free, with optional in-app purchases
Accuracy
The Northern Lights Aurora Forecast application is a fairly accurate option. Rather than showing you a map of the entire world, like some of the other apps on this list, it provides the actual probability of viewing the lights by presenting you with a percentage rate.
Reliability
This app is also extremely reliable. Not only can it provide fairly accurate short-term predictions with the help of data from NASA and NOAA, but it can also be used to predict the probability of auroras appearing over the next 27-day period.
User Interface
While the user interface may feel overwhelming at first, it only takes a few minutes to get accustomed to the layout. This particular app evenly balances its usability with a high number of excellent features.
Features
- Short-Term Forecasts
- Moon Phase Chart
- Weather Alerts
- Long-Term Forecast
- Probability Algorithm
- KP Index
- Solar Wind Activity
- Local Time Instead of UTC
- Location of Lights Compared to Horizon
Why We Chose It
Like many of the apps available on the market today, the Northern Lights Aurora Forecast application provides a lot of excellent features. Many users find themselves overwhelmed at first. However, it is a lot easier to learn how to use this particular app compared to the countless others currently available.
Since the main purpose of the forecasting app is to help monitor the activity of the northern lights in real time, you will find that this application comes bundled with a wide array of graphs and charts. These charts and graphs make it a lot simpler to use the application and understand the results of the forecasted predictions.
One of the most popular features of the Northern Lights Aurora Forecast app is the ability to roughly estimate the probability that you will see the elusive lights in a specific location. Before heading out into the countryside, pull out your phone and check the probability of an occurrence, with the help of a simple and easy-to-understand percentage rate
🆕 UPDATED SECTION: Hello Aurora – The Community-Powered Aurora App
Hello Aurora: Northern Lights Forecast & Community
- App: Hello Aurora: Forecast & Alerts
- Developer: Jeremy Barbet
- Android: Get Hello Aurora for Android on Google Play
- iOS: Get Hello Aurora for iOS on the App Store
- Cost: Free with optional Pro subscription
- Users: 270,000+ registered aurora hunters worldwide
Accuracy
Hello Aurora stands out by using real-time data from local magnetometer stations across the Arctic, updating every few minutes. Unlike apps that rely solely on the Kp index (which updates only every 3-6 hours and provides regional averages), Hello Aurora automatically selects the magnetometer station closest to your location for hyper-local predictions. This approach provides significantly more accurate real-time forecasts than traditional Kp-based apps.
Reliability
With over 26,000 aurora sightings reported by users in 2025 alone, Hello Aurora has proven to be highly reliable. The community verification aspect means you’re not just relying on scientific data—you can see when real people nearby are actually spotting the lights.
User Interface
Hello Aurora features a clean, intuitive interface with a dark design perfect for nighttime use. The app excels at presenting complex aurora data in an easy-to-understand format, making it accessible for beginners while providing depth for experienced aurora chasers. The interactive map showing real-time user sightings is particularly well-designed.
Features
- Real-Time Aurora Forecast (updates every few minutes)
- Magnetometer-Based Local Predictions
- Community-Driven Live Sightings Map
- Real-Time Aurora Photo Sharing (“Moments” feature)
- Substorm Notifications (critical for successful viewing)
- Aurora Spotted Alerts (when users near you see the lights)
- Cloud Coverage Maps (Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, UK)
- Aurora Possibility Index
- Aurora Oval Visualization
- 3D Global Aurora Activity View (Pro)
- Educational Aurora Parameter Explanations
- Customizable Alert Distances
- Ad-Free Experience
- Available in English, French, German, and Thai
Why We Added It to Our List
Hello Aurora has emerged as one of the most popular and innovative aurora apps since our original article was published. What sets it apart is the community aspect—the ability to see real-time photos and reports from other aurora hunters creates a social, connected experience that reduces the isolation of standing in the cold and dark.
The app’s use of local magnetometer data provides more accurate predictions than apps relying solely on the Kp index. During the 2024-2026 Solar Maximum period (the peak of the sun’s 11-year cycle), Hello Aurora users have reported unprecedented aurora activity, including sightings as far south as Romania, Poland, and southern France—locations that rarely see the Northern Lights.
The “Moments” feature allows users to share real-time photos when they spot the aurora, which serves as ground-truth confirmation that the lights are actually visible—something scientific models alone can’t provide. As one reviewer noted: “The spaceweather models can tell you one thing but you need eyes on the ground (looking to the sky) to confirm.”
With 270,000+ users and excellent ratings on both iOS and Android, Hello Aurora has proven itself as a must-have app for anyone serious about seeing the Northern Lights, especially during this peak viewing period of 2024-2026.
Norway Lights (Northern Lights app for Norway)
- App: Norway Lights
- Developer: Visit Norway
- Android: Get Norway Lights for Android on Google Play
- iOS: Get Norway Lights for iOS on the App Store
- Cost: Free
Accuracy
The Norway Lights application is extremely accurate, but its accuracy is limited to destinations within Norway. This application provides little to no accuracy for the rest of the world’s most popular northern lights viewing locations.
Reliability
Because the application was specifically developed for use in Norway only, it is also extremely reliable within the country. By focusing purely on providing forecasts within Norway only, the application is able to offer probabilities that are also reliable and consistent.
User Interface
The number of features can make the usability of the Norway Lights application a little more difficult. Each of these features are specifically designed for people visiting the country. As a result, it is a full-featured travel application that is perfect for the nation’s booming northern lights tourism industry.
Features
- 3-Day Extended Forecast
- Short-Term Forecast
- Anticipates Activity in Specific Cities
- Provides Facts about the Northern Lights
- Provides a Map with a Relative Location
- Provides Tips and Tricks for Photographing the Auroras
- Offers Shortcuts to Get Flights and Tours
Why We Chose It
While other popular apps focus exclusively on helping you improve the chances of viewing the elusive lights, the Norway Lights application is specifically created to help you view the auroras from just about any location within Norway. It features a full-out travel guide, that will make it easier to get from one point of the country to another, in order to increase the chances of viewing the ghostly lights as they dance across the northern skies.
Not only will you have the ability to plan at least 3 days ahead of schedule, but the Norway Lights app provides you with the probability that the lights will make an appearance in any given city in the country.
The number of amazing features built into the Norway Lights make it an excellent choice when visiting Norway. However, it cannot be used for planning a northern lights expedition to any other destination in the world. If you are planning on visiting Norway to view the auroras, then the Norway Lights app is the perfect choice.
Other Good Northern Lights Apps & Websites
Arcticans Aurora Forecast
- App: Arcticans Aurora Forecast
- Developer: Mr. Poro
- Android: Get Arcticans for Android on Google Play
- iOS: Get Arcticans for iOS on the App Store
- Cost: $4.99 (no free option available)
Features
- KP Index
- HPI Index
- Solar Wind Forecast
- Real-Time Monitoring
- Short-Term Forecast
- Long-Term Forecast
- Magnetometers
- Northern Lights Web Cams
- Push Notifications
Pros
- Premium Account
- Swiss Army Knife for the Aurora Hunter
- Proprietary Algorithm
- Amazing User Interface
- Push Notifications
Cons
- Paid App
- May Not Be Perfect for Everyone
NOAA
Website: https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/aurora-30-minute-forecast
One of the best sources of information regarding the visibility of the auroras comes from NOAA.
In fact, most of the other applications available on the market today, use the prediction models provided from the NOAA website. Being the leader in forecasting technology, NOAA is able to provide some of the most accurate predictions possible. After all, most of the weather and atmospheric satellites orbiting the planet are either monitored or controlled exclusively by NOAA.
One of their most popular forecast models provides a roughly 30 to 90 minutes prediction window. This is more than enough time for the average person to drive outside of any major city, in order to view the elusive lights. Using a series of green and red coloring tones, the SWPC forecast can be used for predicting the occurrence of the elusive lights anywhere in the world.
Pros
- Used by All Apps for Prediction Models
- Freely Available
- Monitored and Controlled by the World’s Brightest Minds
- Easy to Understand
Cons
- Doesn’t Offer a Long-Term Forecast
- May Not Be Accessible Worldwide
- Doesn’t Offer a Prediction as a Percentage
Tips for Using Your Northern Lights App in 2026
Take Advantage of Community Features
With apps like Hello Aurora now offering real-time community sightings, make sure to enable location-based notifications. When other users near you spot the aurora, you’ll get an instant alert—this is often more reliable than waiting for Kp index changes.
Understand the Solar Maximum Advantage
During the current Solar Maximum period (2024-2026), you may see auroras even when apps show “low” activity. Don’t skip going outside just because the forecast seems modest—the heightened solar activity means surprises are common.
Use Multiple Data Sources
The most successful aurora hunters use a combination of:
- Aurora forecasting apps (for activity predictions)
- Weather apps (for cloud coverage – your real enemy!)
- Community reports (for ground-truth confirmation)
Apps like Hello Aurora combine all three, but you can also supplement with dedicated weather apps like Yr.no or Ventusky for detailed cloud coverage.
Keep Essential Tech Accessories Ready
Make sure you have:
- A fully charged cold-weather power bank (phones drain 20-40% faster in extreme cold)
- Touchscreen gloves for operating your phone
- A car charger for topping up between locations
- Your phone brightness turned down to preserve battery and night vision
Check out our recommended tech accessories section above for specific product recommendations.
All recommendations in this article have been updated for the 2024-2026 aurora viewing season.
Essential Tech & Accessories for Northern Lights App Users
Since this article is about using Northern Lights forecasting apps, here are the essential tech accessories you’ll need to keep your phone powered and protected while aurora hunting in extreme cold conditions.
1. Portable Power Banks (Cold-Weather Resistant)
Anker 737 Power Bank – Ultra high capacity, charges iPhone 6-7 times, reliable performance in cold weather
Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 Carbon Fiber Power Bank – Ultra-lightweight (5.29 oz), carbon fiber construction performs well in extreme cold, IPX5 water resistant, perfect for aurora hunting
Why you need this: The article emphasizes that apps require constant data connection, and phones drain faster in Arctic cold. A quality power bank is essential for keeping your phone alive during long aurora viewing sessions.
2. Phone Protection & Mounting
Waterproof Phone Cases – Protect your phone from snow, moisture, and extreme cold while keeping touchscreen functionality
Magnetic Car Phone Mount – For checking aurora apps while driving to remote viewing locations
3. Touchscreen-Compatible Winter Gloves
Touchscreen Compatible Gloves – Essential for operating your phone and aurora apps outdoors in freezing temperatures
Why you need this: You’ll be constantly checking your aurora app in sub-zero temperatures. Regular gloves won’t work with touchscreens.
4. Red Light Headlamp
Headlamp with Red Light Mode – Preserve your night vision while checking your phone and aurora app
Why you need this: White light ruins your night-adapted vision. A red light headlamp lets you check your phone without compromising your ability to see the aurora.
5. International Connectivity (for travelers)
Portable WiFi Hotspot – For travelers who need reliable internet connection for aurora apps in remote locations
Why you need this: The article specifically warns that apps require internet connection to function. If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need a data solution.
6. Northern Lights Educational Resources
Aurora Borealis: The Ultimate Hunting Guide by Leonardo Papèra – Photography and forecasting guide mentioned in the cold weather gear list. Also available on Kindle.
Why you need this: The article recommends learning the technical terminology (Kp index, solar wind, etc.) to get the most from your aurora app.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Northern Lights App (2026 Edition)
This brings us to the end of our updated selection of the best aurora forecasting apps for both iOS and Android. While it’s still not possible to pick one single ‘best’ app for northern lights, we can now narrow it down to these three top recommendations for 2026:
- Hello Aurora (by Jeremy Barbet) – Best for community features and real-time local forecasts
- My Aurora Forecast & Alerts (by JRustonApps B.V.) – Best for comprehensive data and long-term forecasts
- Northern Lights Aurora Forecast (by Letovaltsev Maxim) – Best for probability percentages and detailed metrics
If you’re in Norway specifically, the Norway Lights app remains an excellent choice with its regional focus and integrated travel features.
Important Update for 2024-2026: Peak Aurora Viewing Period
If you’re planning to see the Northern Lights, now is an exceptional time. We are currently in the Solar Maximum phase (2024-2026), which is the peak of the Sun’s 11-year activity cycle. This means:
- Stronger and more frequent aurora displays
- Aurora visible at lower latitudes than usual
- Higher probability of seeing the lights even with moderate KP levels
- More intense colors and dynamic aurora activity
In May 2024, we witnessed one of the most powerful geomagnetic storms in over 20 years, with auroras visible as far south as Mexico, southern France, and Romania. This level of activity is expected to continue through 2026, making it a once-in-a-decade opportunity.
The Rise of Community-Driven Aurora Forecasting
One of the biggest developments in aurora apps since our original article is the emergence of community-driven features. Apps like Hello Aurora have demonstrated that combining scientific data with real-time user reports creates a more complete picture of aurora activity. When someone nearby confirms they’re seeing the lights, it removes the guesswork from interpretation of technical data.
Our Recommendation
For most users in 2026, we recommend downloading both Hello Aurora and My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. Here’s why:
- Hello Aurora provides the most accurate real-time local forecasts using magnetometer data and lets you see when other hunters nearby are spotting the lights
- My Aurora Forecast & Alerts offers excellent long-term forecasting (days and weeks ahead) to help you plan your trip
Together, these two free apps give you both planning capability and real-time accuracy. If you’re not bound to using an app and prefer web-based data, NOAA’s website remains the authoritative source, as all aurora apps ultimately derive their data from NOAA and ESA satellites.
However, for on-the-go access, especially when traveling or hiking in remote locations, having a dedicated app with push notifications is invaluable. Missing the aurora because you didn’t check at the right time would be heartbreaking—let the apps do the monitoring for you.
Happy aurora chasing, and remember: 2024-2026 is an exceptional window for seeing the Northern Lights!
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