Kp index for drone pilots
Live geomagnetic activity from NOAA, adjusted for where you fly.
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How to read it
Kp runs from 0 (quiet) to 9 (extreme storm) in 3-hour steps. Strong geomagnetic storms can disturb satellite positioning, mostly near the auroral zone. We shift Kp by your geomagnetic latitude: +1 at 60° and above, 0 from 50° to 60°, −1 from 40° to 50° and −2 below 40°. An adjusted Kp of 4 or less reads “GPS: normal”; 5 and above “GPS: may be degraded”. More in Kp for drones and Kp myths and facts.
FAQ
Should I never fly above Kp 5?
That forum rule is too blunt. At mid latitudes a Kp of 5 rarely causes noticeable trouble for a modern multi-constellation receiver; near the auroral zone it matters more. Watch your satellite count and home point.
Where does the data come from?
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center: observed and estimated Kp plus the 3-day forecast, refreshed every 15 minutes.
Is the latitude adjustment official?
No, it is our simple, documented heuristic based on geomagnetic latitude. The planetary Kp itself is NOAA’s.