What it does
This app is a comprehensive tool for aurora enthusiasts. It provides real-time, global maps showing the probability of seeing the Northern (Aurora Borealis) and Southern (Aurora Australis) Lights. Beyond simple maps, it offers detailed space weather forecasts, including solar wind speed and KP index, and sends customizable alerts when viewing conditions are favorable in the user's area.
Where it shines
Aurora Forecast shines in its ability to consolidate multiple, complex data sources into a simple, actionable interface. The map screen is the centerpiece, allowing users to toggle between aurora probability and cloud cover with a single tap (01:13). This immediately answers the two most critical questions for any aurora chaser. The 'Tools' section (02:22) is another highlight, acting as a curated hub for deeper content like live webcams from prime viewing locations and detailed solar activity visualizations.
UX highlights
- Layered Map Data: The ability to overlay aurora probability, cloud cover, or both on a single map (01:23) is incredibly powerful for at-a-glance planning.
- Granular Notifications: The app allows users to set specific thresholds for alerts (02:12), such as getting notified only when viewing probability exceeds 70%. This prevents alert fatigue.
- Contextual Info Panels: Small info icons throughout the app (01:10, 03:18) open up detailed guides explaining complex scientific terms like 'KP Index' and 'Solar Wind Bz,' making the app accessible to novices.
- Location-Specific Forecasts: After setting a location like Yellowknife (01:36), all forecast data, from viewing probability to cloud coverage, is tailored to that specific spot.
- Comprehensive 'Tools' Hub: The app neatly organizes secondary features like 'Best Locations' (02:27) and 'Live Webcams' (02:58) into one discoverable section, reducing clutter in the main navigation.
- Map Style Options: In settings (03:53), users can switch between Standard, Satellite, and Hybrid map styles to suit their preference, a small but thoughtful touch.
Monetization & growth
The app presents its paywall early in the onboarding flow, immediately after a brief feature carousel (00:16). It gates all core functionality behind a subscription, making it a hard paywall for practical use. The primary offer is a 7-day free trial that converts to a weekly plan ($9.99/week), with a yearly option available for a better value ($49.99/year). The app also employs an aggressive, two-step rating request very early in the onboarding (00:03) to solicit feedback before the user has even reached the paywall.
Who it’s for
This app is clearly designed for two main groups. The primary audience is serious aurora chasers, photographers, and tour guides who need reliable, detailed, and real-time data to plan their activities. The granular controls and in-depth metrics cater directly to this expert audience. A secondary audience would be curious travelers and amateur astronomers who are visiting northern regions and want a simple tool to know if they should look up at the sky.
Notes & opportunities
The app is data-rich and highly functional, but the user's initial journey is somewhat disjointed. The flow goes from feature carousel to a rating request, then to a paywall, before finally asking for the permissions needed to make the app work. This front-loads friction and monetization before the user can interact with the product. An alternative approach could be to allow limited access to the map first, demonstrating the app's value, and then presenting the paywall and permission requests once the user tries to access a premium feature, like alerts or detailed forecasts.