The northern lights made display over much of the US on Thursday and make a return appearance Friday night.

The geomagnetic storm that created show has subsided according the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration US may again see the norther lights tonight.

The aurora borealis was visible as south as Florida on Thursday. Image show the sky lit up in purple and red in areas like Chicago and New York City.

What causes the northern lights?

The northern lights are caused by interaction between sun solar winds and Earth protective magnetic field.

Those two phenomenon result in geomagnetic storm and increased geomagnetic activity.

The higher the geomagnetic activity is better your odd are seeing aurora.

Increased geomagnetic activity mean aurora will become brighter active and visible from poles of the planet.

What time will the northern lights be most visible?

The northern lights are visible after sunset or just before sunrise. NOAA said.

The aurora is not visible during day.

Dark cloudless skies with little artificial light provide best experience.

Why have the northern lights been so visible lately?

Northern lights have been so intense because of where the sun is in its 11 year solar cycle Dahl said that we are in midst solar maximum.

Last several months the sun has incredibly active unfolding a series of coronal mass ejection from its surface.

The geomagnetic storm responsible for Thursday stunning skies is subsiding.

The re will be less opportunity of aurora on Friday but may be opportunities in future.