Understanding the Northern Lights

Myths and Legends

• Vikings: Thought the Northern Lights were a bridge to Asgard, home of the gods.
• Norse Legend: Believed they were reflections off the Valkyrie's shields.
• Finland: Saw them as the archangel Michael fighting the Devil.

Scientific Explanation

• Naming: Galileo Galilei named them Aurora Borealis, meaning Dawn of the North.
• Discovery: Norwegian scientist Kristian Birkeland in 1896 revealed the cause.

Earth's Magnetic Fields

• Origins: Created by hot molten iron within Earth's core, forming the magnetosphere.
• Protection: The magnetosphere shields Earth from solar particles.

Solar Wind

• Nature: Charged particles called plasma escape from the sun, traveling towards Earth.
• Interaction: Most particles are deflected by Earth's magnetic field, except near the poles.

Light Creation

• Process: Electrons encounter oxygen and nitrogen, exciting them and releasing photons.
• Colors:
  • Oxygen: Up to 150 miles = Yellow-green; above 150 miles = Red.
  • Nitrogen: Up to 60 miles = Blue.
• Color Mixing: Forms a range of hues like pinks, purples, and whites.

Conditions and Viewing

• Visibility: Most vibrant during solar storms, hindered by sunlight during the day.
• Engagement: Audience encouraged to share their experiences and explore more on the website.

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