Experts say we've had an active year for the Northern Lights in Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Our team received a lot of viewer photos of an incredible look at the Northern Lights on Thursday, Oct. 11. 

Experts in Wisconsin say this has been an active year for the astrological wonder. Mallory Conlon, at the Yerkes Observatory, and Matthew Ryno, of the Milwaukee Astronomical Society, say the sun is going through an active once-in-12-years period that makes the Aurora Borealis more visible. 

“Over the past couple weeks where the sun has been really active, and it’s relatively close to the fall equinox, you are probably noticing that these aurora are happening a lot more frequently and are much more visible to the eye," Conlon said.

“That was the largest one we’ve had in maybe 20 years," Ryno said.

Both astrological experts say the current conditions have also made it easier for the lights to be visible from more southern locations and for it to be visible with the human eye. 

“It was pretty remarkable," Conlon said. “Astronomer or not, it’s an incredible experience to be able to see the Northern Lights with your eyes.”

More information from the CBS 58 Ready Weather is available here. 

Astronomers suggest looking through a camera or phone using long exposure.

Click here to see NOAA's Aurora forecast.