Aurora over snow lake

Aurora borealis over a snow lake: natural phenomenon caused by solar particles in Earth's upper atmosphere.

About this subject

The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, is a natural spectacle that occurs when charged particles from the solar wind collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere, such as oxygen and nitrogen. These collisions produce colorful lights that dance across the sky, predominantly in shades of green, red, purple, and blue. The phenomenon is most common in polar regions, where Earth's magnetic field is weaker, allowing particles to penetrate deeper.

To observe the aurora borealis, the best locations include countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Canada, Alaska, and Iceland. The optimal time is during winter when nights are long and dark, and clear skies enhance visibility. The presence of a frozen snow-covered lake can reflect the lights, creating an even more breathtaking landscape.

Culturally, the aurora borealis inspires mythologies from various peoples, such as the Vikings, who believed it was the reflection of Valkyrie armor, and the Sami, who saw it as the souls of ancestors. Scientifically, studying auroras helps understand space weather and geomagnetic storms, which can affect communication systems and power grids. In 2025 and 2026, the solar cycle reaches its peak activity, predicting more intense and frequent auroras.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes the aurora borealis?

The aurora borealis is caused by charged particles from the solar wind interacting with Earth's magnetic field and colliding with atmospheric gases like oxygen and nitrogen, emitting light.

What is the best time to see the aurora borealis?

The best time is during winter, from September to March in the Northern Hemisphere, when nights are longer and darker, and skies are generally clearer.

Can the aurora borealis be seen in Brazil?

No, Brazil is located at low tropical latitudes, far from the polar regions where auroras occur. To see them, you need to travel to countries near the Arctic Circle.