Understanding Auroras

What is an Aurora?

• An aurora is a stunning display of lights in the sky, visible over regions like central Alaska and even observable from space.

Types of Auroras

• Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights): Occurs in the northern hemisphere.
• Aurora Australis (Southern Lights): Occurs in the southern hemisphere.

Cause of Auroras

• Source: Auroras are caused by the Sun and are best seen at night.
• Mechanism:
  • The Sun emits heat, light, and electrified particles known as the solar wind.
  • Earth’s magnetic field protects us from most solar winds but traps some particles.
  • Solar storms, like coronal mass ejections, occur when the Sun releases extra particles and energy.
  • The interaction between solar storms and Earth's magnetic field leads to auroras.

Interaction with Atmosphere

• Oxygen Interactions: Result in green and red lights.
• Nitrogen Interactions: Produce blue and purple lights.

Auroras Beyond Earth

• Planets with atmospheres and magnetic fields can also have auroras. For instance, Jupiter and Saturn exhibit spectacular auroras.

Learn More

• Explore further details about our planet and solar system at NASA Space Place.

This guide outlines the cause and types of auroras, the interaction process with Earth's atmosphere, and examples beyond our planet.