The aurora borealis could light up skies into the middle United States Thursday and Friday nights thanks to a geomagnetic storm that will push the Kp index to six and extend the visibility of the northern lights further south than usual.

A powerful surge of solar energy is heading toward Earth, and up to 20 U.S. states could catch a glimpse just in time for the spring equinox

The spring equinox and the sun's solar cycle could bring views of the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, this March.

The "equinox effect" doubles the chance of auroral activity in March and September, when the fall equinox occurs, scientists say.

A spot of early morning astronomy anyone?