How are the Northern Lights Formed?
The Northern Lights are created when the wind from the Sun hits the Earth’s magnetic field.
Solar wind carrying energetically charged particles, from explosive flares and coronal mass ejections on the Sun, can trigger magnetic storms on Earth called substorms. These substorms cause Earth’s oxygen and nitrogen particles to collide and shed energy in the form of glowing light – creating the Aurora Borealis.
The Northern Lights move to the rhythm of the Earth’s magnetic field.
The Earth’s magnetic field is generated by the motion of molten iron in the Earth’s core. This magnetic field protects Earth from cosmic radiation and charged particles emitted by the Sun. The Earth’s magnetic field also provides the basis for navigation with a compass.
Auroras are visible closer to Earth’s poles but can be seen further away when the Sun releases powerful solar storms.
The aurora may appear as sparks of red, blue, pink, purple, or green. Dark skies are required and viewing may be best around midnight.
Tip: A camera may be able to capture the lights better than the human eye.
