The Northern Lights Explained

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a mesmerizing natural light show that occurs in the night sky of the Earth’s polar regions. It is a stunning display of colors and shapes that has captivated people from all over the world for centuries. In this article, we will explore the science behind the Northern Lights and try to explain this spectacular phenomenon.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are a result of the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and particles from the sun. The sun is constantly emitting a stream of charged particles known as solar winds. When these particles come into contact with the Earth’s magnetic field, they get drawn towards the poles, creating a stunning light show in the sky.

The Earth’s magnetic field is like a protective bubble that surrounds our planet. It is created by the movement of hot liquid iron in the Earth’s core. The magnetic field has two poles – the north pole and the south pole. When the charged particles from the sun reach the Earth’s atmosphere, they collide with the gas molecules, causing them to light up in different colors.

What causes the different colors of the Northern Lights?

The colors of the Northern Lights depend on the type of gas molecules that are affected by the charged particles from the sun. Most commonly, the Northern Lights appear in shades of green, red, and blue. The green color is caused by oxygen molecules, while the red and blue colors are a result of nitrogen molecules.

The different shades and shapes of the Northern Lights are also affected by the height at which the charged particles collide with the gas molecules. The highest layer of the atmosphere where the collisions occur is around 200 miles from the Earth’s surface. This is where the most common green color appears. The lower layer, around 60 miles from the surface, is where the red and blue colors can be seen.

When and where can you see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights can be seen in the night sky of the Earth’s polar regions, including countries such as Iceland, Norway, Canada, and Alaska. The best time to see them is during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker. However, the occurrence of the Northern Lights is not constant, and they may not appear every winter night. They also tend to be more active during periods of high solar activity.

If you are planning a trip to see the Northern Lights, it is essential to check the weather forecast and the aurora forecast. Different websites and apps provide real-time updates on the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in specific locations. It is also recommended to go far away from city lights and into the dark countryside for a better view.

Myths and legends surrounding the Northern Lights

Throughout history, the Northern Lights have been a source of wonder and mystery, often leading to myths and legends. In some cultures, it is believed that the lights are spirits or ancestors dancing in the sky. Some legends suggest that the Northern Lights were tears shed by the gods for their loved ones. There are also stories that associate the lights with battlefields and wars.

In Scandinavian folklore, the lights were believed to be a sign of the Valkyries, heavenly maidens who guided the souls of warriors to Valhalla. Similarly, the Inuit people of Canada and Alaska believed that the lights were the souls of their ancestors playing football with a walrus skull.

Conclusion

The Northern Lights is a natural phenomenon that has fascinated people for centuries. With advances in science and technology, we now have a better understanding of the science behind this spectacular light show. However, that does not take away from the beauty and magic of the Northern Lights. So, if you ever get the opportunity, make sure to witness this extraordinary display of nature’s wonder.