Aurora Borealis
oooooo lights!
How Does This Happen?
The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) form when charged particles that are released from the sun during a solar flare enter the earth's magnetic shield and collide with atoms and molecules in our atmosphere. These collisions create countless little bursts of light, called photons, which make up the aurora.
Where Can I See This Show?
The Aurora Borealis can been seen all over the world, however, the best light shows can be viewed between 60-70 degrees latitude. In other words, if you happen to be in Alaska, Northern Canada, Siberia, Sweden, Finland, Greenland, Iceland or Norway during the peak months, grab a camera, because you have the best seat in the house for viewing this amazing light show!
When is the Best Time to See the Aurora Borealis?
The Aurora Borealis only occurs every 11 years. The best date to see the Northern Lights is September 22 and March 22 during a new moon on a clear night. If those conditions aren't right, the next best time to view them is December to March midnight until 2 a.m.
Aurora Borealis vs. Aurora Australis
The difference between the Aurora Borealis and the Aurora Australis is the hemispheres the occur in. The Aurora Borealis occurs in the Northern Hemisphere. The Aurora Australi can be seen in the Southern Hemisphere. They are both created the same way and create the same amazing light show.
How Can I Predict When I Might See the Auroras?
You cannot predict the exact dates the Auroras may be seen, but they typically occur every 11 years. The best months to see the light show are May, June, and July. Again the best places to see it are Northern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Siberia.
What Causes the Colors of the Northern Lights?
Where Can I Travel to See the Aurora Borealis?
The City of Fairbanks, Alaska thrives on tourists coming to the area to view the Northern Lights. In fact, the Fairbanks Visitor's Bureau advertises that you have an 80% chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis if you stay in their town for 3 or more nights.
Check out this link for more information: http://www.explorefairbanks.com/
Dance of The Sprits, Full HD, real-time Aurora Footage from Solar Storm of Jan 24