Montana Could See Northern Lights and a Lunar Eclipse

Montana could be in for a pretty incredible show in the night sky on Thursday night.

Timing is Key: When to Watch the Partial Lunar Eclipse

We’re expecting a partial lunar eclipse on Thursday, August 27, with the eclipse visible from Montana. The partial phase should begin around 10:13 p.m. Mountain Time.

That’s not the only thing you’ll want to keep an eye out for.

There has also been a coronal mass ejection from the Sun, and NOAA is now forecasting the possibility of Northern Lights.

So, if everything lines up just right, we could have the aurora borealis appearing alongside a partial lunar eclipse Thursday night.

The Unpredictability of the Northern Lights

We all know the Northern Lights can be unpredictable. The forecast can look great, and then the aurora doesn't quite put on the show we were hoping for.

Weather Woes: Smoke and Clouds in the Sky

We also have a few other things working against us.

Smoke has lingered in Montana's skies, and clouds could also move through. We've seen isolated thunderstorms popping up in parts of the state recently, so weather conditions could definitely play a role.

If the skies cooperate, Thursday night could be one you don't want to miss.

Keep your eyes to the skies Thursday night, August 27, and into the early morning hours of Friday, August 28.

You could see a partial lunar eclipse and the Northern Lights at the same time.

Capture the Magic: Share Your Photos!

If you get lucky enough to see it, take some pictures! We'd love to see what you capture here in Montana. Send those photos our way, and we'll share some of the best ones.