That Northern Light Thing...

Ei Anytime Now,


I love the Northern Lights. What is responsible for that phenomenon again?

Thanks!

Paolo Varela

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Ei Paolo!

It's called Aurora Borealis, coming from the name of Boreas, the North
Wind in Greek mythology. This phenomenon occurs when the solar winds
travel at a farther distance causing heat waves to ionize the
flammable gases in the atmosphere like Helium and Hydrogen. This
ignition forms the clouds of light. At the same time, this
radiation disrupts the electromagnetic particles in our atmosphere
that may affect radio transmissions and signals.

This same incident also happens in the Southern hemisphere and is
called Aurora Australis.

They only happen in the polar regions as they are the ones nearest to
the sun and more exposed to radiation.

Though I am a fan of Astronomy, I suggest you check other references
just in case my memory isn't as good as before.

Thanks for asking that very wonderful question. Reminds me
of the time when Pluto was still a planet.

Just Ask Anytime Now!