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Explore Washington: 3 articles on stargazing and auroras

Stories by Bellingham Herald journalists, with AI summarization

All three articles converge on Washington state as a prime location for celestial observation, particularly regarding stargazing and aurora borealis sightings. They emphasize the advantage of minimal light pollution and strategic locations. North Cascades National Park ranks as a distinguished stargazing haven according to a study by TarotCards.io. The park, offering secluded spots like Ross Lake, enables a clear view of starry skies. Meanwhile, Goldendale Observatory also claims recognition, noted in the guide by TarotCards.io for its public accessibility and managed by Washington State Parks.

For those interested in the northern lights, the articles stress the importance of monitoring geomagnetic storm forecasts. NOAA's aurora predictions help locate possible sightings. A G3-level storm sparked visibility in June, with an earlier G4-level storm providing opportunities in May. Residents benefit from tools like NOAA's aurora dashboard and Light Pollution Map to find areas with prime viewing conditions. A more recent mention includes the occurrence of a 'cannibal solar storm' that created aurorae visible in Washington. Both the experimental aurora dashboard and targeted skywatching during darker hours, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., enhance the likelihood of exciting night sky experiences, like those noted in September predictions. Observations in northern areas of Washington frequently yield better chances than in southern parts.

The aurora borealis was seen in most parts of Washington on Friday, including Pierce County. By Brian Hayes

NO. 1: WANT TO SEE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN WA STATE? HOW TO FIND AREAS WITH LESS LIGHT

Geomagnetic storms continue to cause aurora borealis visible in Washington. Here’s how to stay informed and where to escape light pollution. | Published June 2, 2025 | Read Full Story by Daniel Schrager

North Cascades National Park ranked No. 4 for best national parks to stargaze, according to Under Lucky Stars.

NO. 2: WHERE ARE WASHINGTON’S BEST SPOTS FOR STARGAZING? CHECK OUT THESE ‘HIDDEN GEMS’

Clear skies might not be the first thing you associate with Washington st. | Published August 2, 2025 | Read Full Story by Daniel Schrager

The northern lights were visible Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, from the Sudden Valley marina on Lake Whatcom east of Bellingham, Wash. By Robert Mittendorf

NO. 3: MUCH OF WASHINGTON COULD SEE NORTHERN LIGHTS DUE TO ‘CANNIBAL SOLAR STORM’

Part of Washington could see the northern lights due to heightened geomagnetic activity. | Published September 2, 2025 | Read Full Story by Daniel Schrager

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.