A Rare Glimpse

Aurora Borealis + 17 stargazing spots in the Southeast 🌌

If you happened to be in a viewing area of the Southeast’s rare glimpse of the aurora borealis this past May, you might have seen something like this. Taken by Backroad Portfolio reader Jason Cave in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, this beautiful photo is one of our Portfolio spreads in the Summer 2024 issue.

A powerful geomagnetic storm sparked the appearance of the aurora borealis as far south as Florida, the U.S., and northern India this past spring. Research suggests these were some of the strongest auroras in 500 years.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) offers an Aurora Dashboard that keeps tabs on where these rare views may be visible across the globe. There could still opportunities for auroras in the Southeast this year, so check the site every so often to see if it’s coming to a sky near you!

Upgraded subscribers: Scroll down for a list of the Southeast’s best stargazing spots so you’ll know where to capture amazing views.

---

Starry Sky Views

We’ve compiled a list of the best places across the Southeast to view the stars. Some of these spots may align with aurora borealis views as well—if we’re blessed enough to have another rare glimpse of the northern lights this year!