The GOES Magnetometer is one of the most valuable real-time indicators for aurora hunters. Operated by NOAA, this tool measures magnetic field strength and disturbances in geosynchronous orbit—giving insights into geomagnetic storms before they intensify near Earth’s surface.
Watch for sudden drops or fluctuations in the magnetic field—especially when the values shift significantly on the graph. This often corresponds with heightened auroral activity, particularly when other indicators like Bz and solar wind speed are favorable. If you're seeing disturbances across all three GOES lines (X, Y, Z), there's a strong chance of an active aurora display coming soon. Combine GOES data with the ACE satellite and NOAA Aurora Forecast to build a fuller picture of the night's potential. Smart chasers use GOES to confirm when to jump in the truck and chase the lights!