According to Dr. Schmoll, the Earth's magnetic field has a north and south pole, just like any magnet. The sun does as well. Dr. Schmoll says that science is still figuring out the specifics, but in short, the poles of the sun and Earth line up better during the equinox, which is conducive to more frequent auroras.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) aurora forecast, the northern lights may be viewable in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and even Massachusetts tonight. The northern lights are typically most visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. according to NOAA.