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Aurora borealis or northern lights and Ursa Major
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Aurora borealis or northern lights and Ursa Major
Aurora Borealis. Green, yellow and red Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights display over clouds and trees. The plough in the constellation of Ursa Major is prominent at upper left. Aurorae are caused by the interaction between energetic charged particles from the Sun and gas molecules in the upper atmosphere about 100 kilometres up. A stream of charged particles, called the solar wind, flows out into space continuously from the Sun at speeds of 400-500 kilometres per second. On reaching Earth, the charged particles are drawn by Earths magnetic field to the poles, where they collide with gas molecules in the upper atmosphere, causing them to emit light
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Media ID 6373683
© PEKKA PARVIAINEN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Atmospheric Phenomenon Aurora Aurora Borealis Aurora Borealis Display Aurorae Earth Science Effects Electromagnetic Effect Northern Lights Northern Lights Aurora Display Plough Sciences Solar Wind Stars Ursa Major
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of nature's celestial dance - the Aurora Borealis or northern lights. The vibrant hues of green, yellow, and red illuminate the night sky as they gracefully intertwine with wisps of clouds and towering trees below. At the upper left corner, Ursa Major, also known as the Big Dipper or Plough constellation, stands prominently against this ethereal backdrop. Its seven stars serve as a guiding light amidst this breathtaking spectacle. The aurorae phenomenon occurs due to an extraordinary interaction between energetic charged particles from our Sun and gas molecules in Earth's upper atmosphere, approximately 100 kilometers above us. Continuously flowing at speeds of 400-500 kilometers per second, a stream of charged particles called solar wind escapes into space from our Sun. Upon reaching Earth's magnetic field lines near the poles, these charged particles are drawn towards them like cosmic magnets. Colliding with gas molecules in our planet's upper atmosphere during this journey creates a stunning display of radiant light emitted by excited atoms. This awe-inspiring image not only captures the enchanting allure of auroras but also serves as a reminder that even in vast darkness there exists boundless beauty waiting to be discovered.
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