Space

The Night Sky Has A Valentine's Day Treat On Friday

Aurora May Be Visible On Friday

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If you’re in the northern U.S. and haven’t yet planned out your Valentine’s Day date, you’re in luck. Mother Nature is putting on a show, and you won’t have to pay a cent.

The aurora borealis may be visible as far south as Michigan and Maine on Friday, according to Space.com, but you’ll want dark skies for the best viewing. Canada and Alaska will likely get to see the Northern Lights as well.

(MORE: Watch Northern Lights Shimmer Over Alaska)

NOAA reports that a geomagnetic storm is sending a fast-moving solar wind stream to Earth, and the perks are those colorful swirls in the night sky. The aurora borealis occurs when solar winds or flares ejected by the sun collide with atoms and molecules within Earth’s magnetic field.

Stargazers will want to be away from city lights to see the Northern Lights best. The views should peak between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, the perfect nightcap for a romantic date if you’ve already got a dinner reservation.

(MORE FROM WEATHER.COM: Don’t Miss February’s Sweet Night Sky Treats)