Can’t be enjoyed anywhere!
Aurora illustration (unsplash.com/@bitcloud90)
Behind the mysterious darkness of the night, there is a natural phenomenon that captivates and arouses our curiosity. In this vast universe, the Aurora, better known as the Northern Lights or Southern Lights, emits a magical beauty of light in the night sky. This phenomenon has presented a spectacular show for humans throughout the ages. But, what exactly is the secret behind Aurora that makes it so stunning? In this article, we will unravel the mysteries of the aurora lights and dive into the wonders hidden in the night sky.
1. The origin of the aurora: the meeting of the sun with the earth’s magnetosphere
Illustration of the phenomenon of the magnetosphere (unsplash.com/@lightscape)
Aurora, which is closely related to solar activity and the earth’s magnetic field, has fascinated humans since ancient times. When charged particles from space known as the solar wind encounter Earth’s magnetic field, they trigger a spectacular dance of light across the night sky.
According to the book “Physics of space weatherThese particles are mostly composed of electrons and protons that are released from the sun’s atmosphere during large explosions or persistent solar winds. When these particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they collide with the atoms that are there, producing dazzling flashes of light known as auroras.
2. Earth’s magnetosphere: a protective fortress from the solar wind
Ilustrasi norhern light(pixabay.com/users/colin00b-346653/)
Earth’s magnetosphere, which protects our planet like a giant shield, plays an important role in the formation of auroras. Earth’s magnetic field holds charged particles from the solar wind and forces them to flow through magnetic field lines that bend to the poles.
According to the book “Auroras: Fire in the skyWhen these particles follow the path of the magnetic field, they gain enough kinetic energy and collide with molecules in the atmosphere, especially oxygen and nitrogen. This interaction produces a beautiful and alluring glow in the night sky.
3. The color of the aurora: the presence of oxygen and nitrogen
Illustration of the aurora phenomenon in the sky (pixabay.com/users/noel_bauza-2019050/)
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One of the most attractive aspects of the aurora is its stunning colors. This color depends on the type of molecule involved in the interaction with the charged particles. When the particles collide with oxygen at different altitudes, they emit light with a spectrum of different colors. For example, when the particles collide with oxygen at an altitude of about 100 to 300 kilometers above the Earth’s surface, they produce a distinctive green glow.
In addition, according to the book “Magnetospheric physics: Plasma physics and electrodynamics” Charged particles colliding with nitrogen cast dazzling blues, purples, and reds. These colors combine to create a stunning and unforgettable light show in the night sky.
4. Aurora area: at the north and south poles
Illustration of the aurora borealis (pixabay.com/users/wikiimages-1897/)
Auroras can be seen in the North and South polar regions, known as the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis. This is due to the fact that the Earth’s magnetic field bends around the poles and forces charged particles to flow through the area.
According to the book “Northern lights: The science, myth, and wonder of aurora borealisWhen these particles collide with atoms in the atmosphere, they emit light that forms elliptical rings around the poles. These two auroras are often objects of awe and inspiration to observers around the world.
Also Read: 5 Biggest Disasters in the Universe that Challenge the Imagination
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2023-07-14 11:29:00
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