Through this mission, CAP members collect ground-based aurora observations in support of Aurorasaurus, a citizen science program empowering communities to report real-time space weather impacts. Aurora Watch missions are typically activated during geomagnetic storms rated G2 (moderate) or higher on the NOAA Space Weather Scale. Storms at this level indicate significant disturbances in Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar activity and can produce visible auroras, particularly at higher latitudes, while also beginning to affect critical technological systems.
Imagery taken in New Mexico as part of the Aurora Watch mission
During the mission’s first activation, from Nov. 5-17, volunteers from 31 states and all eight Civil Air Patrol (CAP) regions coordinated nationwide observations in response to a remarkable series of X- and M-class solar flares from Sun Region 4274. These CAP members monitored seven distinct geomagnetic storms and submitted real-time reports. This initial activation of CAP volunteers demonstrated our readiness to support sustained space weather operations.
While the Veterans Day superstorm captured public attention and allowed auroras to be seen as far south as Florida, the mission’s most meaningful scientific contributions came from the quieter G2 and G3 geomagnetic storms. These moderate storms can disrupt communications, degrade GPS accuracy, affect aviation operations, and stress power infrastructure. However, at these mid-to-low latitudes, they often generate fewer public reports, leaving researchers with limited situational awareness. During these events, CAP members supplied more than 80% of all aurora-related observations submitted worldwide and 100% of mid- to low-latitude reports, directly addressing one of the most critical data gaps in space weather monitoring.
“Fifteen months of hard work by Civil Air Patrol volunteers from across the U.S. has turned into real, actionable data. I am so excited to see the impact it has had on CAP so far, and I can’t wait to see how this mission grows in the future.”
Imagery taken in Ohio as part of the Aurora Watch mission
Aurora Watch volunteers have continued to respond to solar storms. Reinforcing the mission is not a one-time effort, but an enduring operational capability. Civil Air Patrol's response adds to a growing, consistent dataset improving scientific models, supporting validation of satellite observations, and enhancing understanding of how space weather affects communities and infrastructure across the United States.
If you're a CAP member, learn more about the Aurora Watch Mission and register as a mission participant here.
If you're not a CAP member, consider joining at your nearest unit.
Non-CAP-members who want to participate in this mission can also see more information about the NASA program here.
