Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the data come from? Is it statistical data?

All the data you see on the website is scientific. It comes from a research institute and is processed to make it easier for you to understand.

Why doesn’t the index change when I change my location?

The planetary aurora index (Kp index) applies to the entire Earth because it reflects the overall impact of solar activity on the Earth's magnetic field, not just a specific location. It takes into account changes in the magnetic field caused by solar wind and solar storms, which affect the entire planet.

What do the aurora colors on the map mean?

The map includes a legend with color-coded squares and percentage values to help you better interpret the data. The color meanings are as follows:

  • Pale green – 0% to 10% probability
  • Green – 10% to 20% probability
  • Yellow – 20% to 40% probability
  • Orange – 40% to 60% probability
  • Red – 60% to 100% probability

Who receives notifications?

All users who have installed the app and selected a city within the Arctic Circle on the "Notifications" page will receive alerts. These notifications are sent every two weeks when the probability is high and are free of charge.

Additionally, users who have subscribed to paid notifications receive alerts based on their chosen city, probability threshold, and subscription plan.

Why am I not receiving notifications?

If you are not receiving notifications, it could be due to the following reasons:

  • Push notifications are not enabled in your phone settings.
  • You haven’t selected a city on the "Notifications" page in the app.
  • Your selected city is not within the Arctic Circle (applies to free biweekly notifications).

If you subscribed to a paid notification plan but didn’t receive alerts, the aurora probability in your chosen location may not have reached your selected threshold.

What if my city is not on the list, but aurora can be seen there?

Please email us at polar.digital@ya.ru with your city name. If it meets the probability criteria for notifications and tracking, we will add it.

We are constantly working on updating and expanding the city list.

Why isn’t "My Geoposition" working on the map?

Check your browser or device settings. You may have disabled location access.

Why can’t I see the aurora even when the probability is high?

Even if the aurora probability is high in your location, heavy cloud cover or snowfall can obstruct visibility. That’s why our map includes an additional cloud cover layer, allowing you to check the current cloud conditions in real time.

And remember, the aurora rewards those who have the patience to wait!