Understanding Aurora
Nature’s Light Show

What is an aurora? Often described as a natural light display in the Earth’s sky, predominantly seen in the high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic. These magnificent light displays are also known as polar lights, Aurora Borealis in the north, or Aurora Australis in the south.

Origins of Auroras

Auroras are the result of disturbances in the magnetosphere caused by the solar wind. These disturbances are usually strong enough to alter the trajectories of charged particles in both solar wind and magnetospheric plasma. These particles, mainly electrons and protons, precipitate into the upper atmosphere (thermosphere/exosphere), where their energy is lost.

The Colors of Auroras

The specific colors seen in an aurora are due to the type of gas molecules found in the atmosphere and the altitude at which the aurora occurs. Oxygen emits either a greenish-yellow or a red light, depending on the amount of energy absorbed. Nitrogen generally gives off a blue light. The blend of colors leads to the gorgeous green, pink, blue, yellow, violet, and sometimes orange and white hues typically observed in the auroral zones.

Viewing Auroras

The best time to view auroras is during winter in the polar regions, away from city lights. Locations like Northern Norway, Alaska,and Southern New Zealand are well-known for their auroral activity. Researchers and photographers from around the world flock to these areas, hoping to capture the stunning beauty of these natural phenomena.