Aurora Now - Northern Lights icon
Aurora Now - Northern Lights: Comprehensive Forecast App Review

by VNIL AB

4.7
IOSWeather
Aurora Now provides real-time northern lights forecasting and alerts for aurora enthusiasts. The iOS app combines scientific data with practical tools for optimal aurora viewing experiences across various locations.

Detailed Review

Aurora Now - Northern Lights by VNIL AB positions itself as a comprehensive forecasting tool for aurora borealis observation, serving both amateur stargazers and dedicated aurora chasers. The application aggregates multiple data sources to provide accurate predictions and practical viewing assistance for one of nature's most spectacular phenomena. The core functionality revolves around real-time aurora forecasting with location-based probability assessments. The app incorporates solar activity data, cloud cover information, and geomagnetic indices to generate personalized forecasts. Users can set custom alerts for optimal viewing conditions, access detailed KP index interpretations, and utilize augmented reality features to identify potential viewing directions. The platform integrates with weather services to provide complementary atmospheric condition data essential for successful aurora observation. User experience demonstrates thoughtful design with intuitive navigation and clear data visualization. The interface presents complex scientific information through accessible charts and color-coded indicators. Real-world usage patterns show users frequently checking hourly forecasts, setting location-based notifications, and using the viewfinder feature to determine optimal sighting directions. The app maintains functionality even in remote areas with limited connectivity, though some features require internet access for data updates. User feedback consistently highlights the app's reliability and educational value. Reviews from Cmjja (October 2024) note successful aurora photography in Illinois using the app's alert system, while LOgalinOR (January 2025) praises the comprehensive probability data and educational content about solar terminology. RLNfirst (July 2024) specifically mentions the app's ability to teach solar-terrestrial relationships to older users. The 4.67/5 rating reflects widespread satisfaction with forecasting accuracy and notification reliability. The application demonstrates notable strengths in data accuracy and user-friendly presentation of complex meteorological information. Limitations include dependency on third-party data sources and potential notification delays during rapid geomagnetic changes. Ideal use cases involve planned aurora viewing expeditions where users can combine the app's predictions with local weather conditions for optimal results. The app serves particularly well for travelers seeking northern lights experiences in high-latitude regions.

Key Features

  • Real-time aurora forecasting using solar wind and geomagnetic data to predict visibility probability within specific geographic regions
  • Customizable push notifications that alert users when aurora activity reaches predetermined thresholds in their location
  • Augmented reality viewfinder that overlays aurora probability data onto camera view for directional viewing assistance
  • Comprehensive educational section explaining KP indices, solar terminology, and aurora formation mechanisms for user knowledge
  • Multi-location tracking allowing users to monitor conditions simultaneously across different potential viewing sites
  • Historical data access providing trend analysis and pattern recognition for long-term aurora chasing planning

Why Users Love It

Accurate forecasting algorithms
Effective notification system

Perfect for: Aurora enthusiasts and travelers seeking northern lights viewing opportunities

Screenshots

Aurora Now - Northern Lights screenshot 1Aurora Now - Northern Lights screenshot 2Aurora Now - Northern Lights screenshot 3Aurora Now - Northern Lights screenshot 4Aurora Now - Northern Lights screenshot 5

Ranking History

Track Aurora Now - Northern Lights's performance in Weather over the last 30 days

Top 5
Top 10
Top 15
Below 15

Current Rank

#41

Best Rank

#3

All-time high

Average Rank

#15

30-day average

User Reviews

Cmjja
Oct 11, 2024

We used the app to watch locations in my area when we should head out looking. I set alerts which work great!! Got pictures in Illinois last night!!!!! 🥰 Great help!! We used the app to watch locations in my area when we should head out looking. I set alerts which work great!! Got pictures in Illinois last night!!!!! 🥰

worldlearn.co
Feb 11, 2025

Love the view feature, helps significantly when trying to spot the aurora. Great features! Love the view feature, helps significantly when trying to spot the aurora.

jntampa
Oct 21, 2023

New update works and shows the data I was looking for in the app. Showed a good percent of chance last night and sure enough we had a great show! Thanks for the update. We have missed plenty of showings using this app. The app has never been over 0 chance since using it for several years yet you go outside and the sky is filled with the Northern lights. Only thing good about the app is an easy way to see some atmospheric metrics and such. Don’t count on it for predictions! Always says 0, *fixed* New update works and shows the data I was looking for in the app. Showed a good percent of chance last night and sure enough we had a great show! Thanks for the update. We have missed plenty of showings using this app. The app has never been over 0 chance since using it for several years yet you go outside and the sky is filled with the Northern lights. Only thing good about the app is an easy way to see some atmospheric metrics and such. Don’t count on it for predictions!

Leon Weiss
May 12, 2024

I have been using this app for years In hopes of seeing the Northern Light. And it paid off last night, May 10, 2024. The app is a work of art. Beautifully designed, and loaded with information. Nevertheless it is accessible to all irrespective the one’s science background. If nothing else it will at least let you know when to look. Great App I have been using this app for years In hopes of seeing the Northern Light. And it paid off last night, May 10, 2024.The app is a work of art. Beautifully designed, and loaded with information. Nevertheless it is accessible to all irrespective the one’s science background. If nothing else it will at least let you know when to look.

Lady named
Oct 11, 2024

This is a very useful little tool if you have an interest in seeing the aurora. I highly recommend it! Very helpful tool This is a very useful little tool if you have an interest in seeing the aurora. I highly recommend it!

App Details

Developer

VNIL AB

Platform

ios

Rating

4.7

Last Updated

11/13/2025