Aurora Forecast, Alerts & Photography Guide App
Created by the aurora photographer for aurora photographers
I built this app to solve my own problem — having all the forecasts I need to plan an aurora night in one place. Aurora activity, solar wind, Kp forecast, cloud cover, wind, temperature, moon phase, alerts, and more. Everything that matters, combined.
Join aurora photographers from 67 countries around the world already using the app
Monitor what’s happening with solar wind parameters
Check current Bz, speed, density, and Bt. Watch how they evolve over time and understand what's really driving the aurora.
Know what to expect with the 27-day aurora forecast
The 27-day geomagnetic activity forecast helps you plan in advance. Due to the sun's rotation, the solar activity you see in this forecast tends to repeat. For an even longer perspective, the 81-day forecast gives you a triple repetition of the 27-day one.
Know moon phases and dark hours calendar
Plan your photography sessions around the optimal moon phase and darkness at your chosen locations. Know exactly when aurora season starts and ends — and make the most of every dark night.
Learn from the text guide what to expect tonight
Receive advice based on aurora and weather forecasts, moon positioning, and your location. See whether the aurora will likely appear on the horizon or overhead — and get timely hints on reflections and moonlit landscapes.
Use up to 5 custom locations simultaneously
Use your current location and up to 5 custom spots to find clear skies and the best conditions for your aurora photography. Switch between forecasts and guidance for each spot to plan your sessions with confidence.
Additional app features not mentioned above
Receive notifications when high Kp levels are expected in the coming days — so you'll be informed in advance about upcoming aurora activity.
See the minimum Kp required to see the aurora overhead and on the horizon for all your added locations.
Use the moon and dark hours infographic for tonight and the next night when planning your aurora photography sessions.
Customise the app to your preferences — set your preferred units for temperature and wind speed, and the start and end days of the week.
Frequently asked questions
-
The app uniquely combines all the data you need in one place and presents it in an easy and enjoyable way, making it effortless to track forecasts, receive timely alerts, and make the right decisions. It's all about increasing your chances of seeing and capturing the northern lights.
-
There isn't a free version available because all the app's features are integral and work best when used together. However, you can experience this for yourself with a 3-day free trial, which gives you full access to all the app's features.
-
Far from expensive, the app enhances your chances of experiencing unforgettable aurora moments for just about €29.99 ($29.99) per year or €6.99 ($6.99) per month, though exact prices depend on your App Store region. For precise prices, please visit the app’s page in the App Store, or view the exact price when you open the app.
-
No, you won’t be charged immediately. You will only be charged if you do not cancel the free trial at least 24 hours before it ends, in line with the standard practice for App Store auto-renewable subscriptions.
-
Cancelling your free trial or subscription, as well as changing your subscription plan, is straightforward. Simply go to your iPhone’s Settings > Apple ID > Subscriptions, or manage it directly within the app’s Settings page.
-
The app is designed for global use in all the regions where auroras could be visible. Nevertheless, by adding locations of your interest, you can see the forecasts and plan ahead, regardless of your current location.
-
You can use the app without granting any permissions if you choose. However, if you wish to use your current location or receive aurora alerts, the app will request these permissions to enable those features.
-
Tracking aurora activity and weather forecasts for multiple locations simultaneously is one of the app's key features. You can add up to five locations and monitor forecasts well in advance of your trip. Once on location, add spots within reach and switch between them to find the best conditions.
-
The app uses reliable data from the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center. Space weather is less predictable than terrestrial weather, but the Kp forecast and alerts effectively inform you about upcoming aurora activity. Real-time forecasts and alerts are particularly accurate, offering approximately an hour's lead time — significantly increasing your chances of seeing the aurora.
-
Yes, there are three types of guides available within the app. The Starting Guide provides a brief overview of how to use the app. The Info sections on each of the main app pages offer insights into the forecasts and data presented. The Guide for Tonight suggests what to expect and advises on camera settings based on the current forecast.
-
If you have questions or need support, use the form on the Contact page. You'll also find a link to contacts in the app's Settings page.
-
Yes. The app has been regularly updated since launch and will continue to receive all the necessary support, maintenance updates, and new features.
Download Step’s Aurora Guide app and start your 3-day free trial today.
