Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a natural light display predominantly seen in high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic. This phenomenon occurs when charged particles emitted by the sun during solar storms interact with the earth's magnetosphere. When these particles collide with gases like oxygen and nitrogen in the Earth's atmosphere, they emit light, creating vibrant displays of color.
The colors of Aurora Borealis vary based on the type and altitude of the gas particles involved. Green is the most common color, produced by oxygen molecules located around 60 miles above the earth. Red auroras are rarer and come from oxygen at higher altitudes, approximately 200 miles up. Nitrogen produces blue or purplish-red aurora.
Auroras generally occur in a circular pattern around the poles, known as auroral ovals. Their intensity can vary significantly, ranging from low-light displays barely visible to the naked eye to spectacular, vivid illuminations that light up the entire sky. These variations depend on solar activity and geomagnetic conditions.
Historical records suggest that auroras have fascinated humans for centuries, with references found in ancient Roman, Greek, and Chinese texts. In modern times, they continue to be a subject of scientific research and are considered a major attraction for tourists traveling to northern regions such as Norway, Finland, Canada, and Alaska.