Branden Bodendorfer, Local Photographer captures Northern Lights in Marshfield
Marshfield, WI (OnFocus) – On the evening of April 23, 2023, local photographer Branden Bodendorfer captured stunning photos of the northern lights over Marshfield. Bodendorfer had received a notification alert early in the day that there was going to be a high KP Index tonight, peaking at 10 pm. The app Bodendorfer uses is Aurora, which is available for both Android and iPhone users. The resulting photos are a beautiful reminder of the natural wonders that can be found in Wisconsin.
The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural light display in the sky, predominantly seen in the high-latitude regions (around the Arctic and Antarctic). The lights are caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The KP index is a measure of geomagnetic activity. It is used to predict the strength of the northern lights. The KP index ranges from 0 to 9, with 0 being the weakest and 9 being the strongest. A KP index of 6 or higher is usually required for the northern lights to be visible in Wisconsin.
Bodendorfer said he was excited to capture the northern lights on film. “I’ve been wanting to see them for a long time,” he said. “I’m so glad I was able to get some great photos of them.”
To see the full gallery of photos, click here, including drone photography.
The northern lights are a truly awe-inspiring sight, and Bodendorfer’s photos are a testament to their beauty. If you’re ever lucky enough to see them in person, you’re sure to remember it for the rest of your life.
**How to Measure the KP Index**
The KP index is measured by the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). The SWPC uses a variety of data, including satellite observations and ground-based measurements, to calculate the KP index.
The KP index is updated every day at 00:00 UTC. You can find the current KP index on the SWPC website.
**How to Forecast the Northern Lights**
The KP index can be used to forecast the northern lights. A KP index of 6 or higher is usually required for the northern lights to be visible in Wisconsin.
You can also use the SWPC’s Aurora Forecast tool to get a more detailed forecast of the northern lights.
**Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights**
If you’re planning to view the northern lights, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of seeing them:
* **Check the KP index and the weather forecast.** The northern lights are most visible during geomagnetic storms, which are caused by solar flares. The KP index can be used to predict the strength of a geomagnetic storm. The weather forecast can be used to determine if there will be any clouds in the sky.
* **Find a dark location.** The northern lights are best seen away from city lights. Look for a location with a clear view of the northern sky.
* **Use a tripod.** The northern lights are often dim, so you’ll need a tripod to keep your camera steady.
* **Set your camera to manual mode.** This will give you more control over the exposure settings.
* **Use a high ISO.** The higher the ISO, the more sensitive your camera will be to light.
* **Open your aperture as wide as possible.** This will let in more light.
* **Use a long shutter speed.** The longer the shutter speed, the more light your camera will collect.
* **Be patient.** The northern lights can be fleeting, so be patient and keep shooting.
With a little planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of seeing the northern lights.
