Decoding Magnetic Field DataKp is a simple “storm strength” score—higher Kp often means auroras can be seen farther south.August 9, 2025Reading the Magnetic Field Dashboard TL;DR Kp is a 0–9 number for geomagnetic activity. Kp 5 starts “storm” conditions (G1). Higher = stronger. Kp updates every few hours, so it’s a summary, not instant minute-by-minute change. How to use it (beginner) Check Kp to see how “stormy” things are overall. Then check solar wind Bz to see if conditions are actually “connected” right now. If Kp is up and Bz is negative, aurora chances improve. What the GOES magnetometer chart means (super simple) It’s a more “live” view of magnetic changes near Earth. Sudden moves can be an early hint that conditions are changing before the next Kp update.
