Northern and Southern Lights: When and Where to See Them
Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural light display in the sky, primarily visible at high latitude regions (around the Arctic and Antarctic). They occur when the magnetosphere is sufficiently disturbed by the solar wind. Charged particles entering the atmosphere collide with gas particles, causing the ionization or excitation of these particles. The resulting energy is then released in the form of photons.
Best Viewing Locations and Times
The Northern Lights are best viewed during the winter months (September-March) when the nights are longer and the chances of seeing them are higher. The best viewing locations are in areas with minimal light pollution, such as remote areas in Alaska, Canada, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. The aurora activity is typically higher during periods of high solar activity, such as during solar storms.
Aurora Australis (Southern Lights)
The Southern Lights, also known as the aurora australis, are the southern hemisphere equivalent of the Northern Lights. They occur for the same reasons and are best viewed at high latitude regions in the Southern Hemisphere, such as Antarctica, the southern parts of Argentina and Chile, and Tasmania.
Best Viewing Locations and Times
The Southern Lights are best viewed during the winter months (March-September) when the nights are longer. Similar to the Northern Lights, the best viewing locations are in areas with minimal light pollution. The aurora activity is typically higher during periods of high solar activity.
Https Www Oregonlive Com Weather 2024 05 Northern Lights Forecast For May 11 12 Html
Https Www Kgw Com Article News Nation World Northern Lights This Weekend Solar Storm Forecast 507 005cf99b F13a 4948 93d9 1cdb4c6bf441
Comments