Periodically, the sun spews out gigantic eruptions of particles into the solar system. Sometimes, when the solar eruptions are aimed right at Earth, the particles may create brilliant auroras in night skies in many parts of the planet.

In the United States, plenty of Americans should have an opportunity Thursday to witness auroras dancing across the night sky.

The northern lights could shine across Ohio and much of the United States tonight thanks to an incoming solar storm. Here's how to see them.