SO THAT — PURPOSE
An action/plan may be followed by so that + a clause that expresses purpose or goal. The clause after so usually includes a modal, such as can, could, will, would, may or might, all of which express general timing. The time of the purpose is usually (but not always) later than the time when one makes the plan. A similar meaning can be expressed with in order + infinitive clause.
We decided to stay out all night
so that we could¹ watch a meteor storm.
(connective preposition + that-clause)
SO — RESULT
An action or a situation may also be followed by so + a clause that expresses result (effect). A past tense cause-effect clause requires more precise timing. For this reason, (be) able is used instead of could when expressing ability. A somewhat similar meaning can be expressed with the intensifier so in the main clause followed by that + result clause.
We stayed out all night,
so we were able² to see the meteor storm pass. (PP)
Hope you got this!
(coordinator "result")
We have lots of blankets,
so we will be able to keep ourselves warm.