The Aurora borealis They are one of the most impressive natural spectacles we can observe during the winter. This phenomenon was particularly visible in Canada, where residents were able to enjoy this spectacle just hours after the winter solstice. NASA, using the "Day-Night Band" (DNB) of its VIIRS (Visible Infrared Image Radiometer Suite) instrument, managed to capture this event from the Suomi NPP satellite.
The DNB has the capacity to detect dim light signals, which includes not only the Northern Lights, but also the air shine, gas flares y reflected moonlightOn this particular occasion, a remarkable "storm" of auroras was recorded in northern Canada, which not only alerted scientists but also amazed all who had the opportunity to witness it.
How auroras occur?
This natural phenomenon is not limited to a single region of the planet, but is characteristic of both the North and South Poles. When these lights occur at the South Pole, they are known as aurora australis, while at the North Pole, we call them Aurora borealis. Both phenomena are generated when the solar wind collides with the Earth's magnetic field. You can read more about this process in our article on How are northern lights formed.
When the solar wind, composed of charged particles from the Sun, collides with the Earth's magnetic field, it stretches and accumulates energy. Eventually, the lines of the magnetic field They reconnect and release this energy. This release propels the electrons back toward the planet. When they collide with the upper atmosphere, they trigger the aurora, which is responsible for the stunning colors in the skies over the polar regions.
The way these are represented auroras It is very varied, as they can manifest themselves in different colors and patterns, depending on the number of particles and the altitude at which they collide. The most common auroras are green, but they can also appear in shades of red, purple, yellow, and blue, depending on the gases present in the atmosphere and the energy of solar particles. If you'd like to learn more about the different variations of this phenomenon, visit our article on Interesting facts about the Northern Lights.
The experience of observing the Northern Lights
Watching the Northern Lights is a magical experience that combines the science and natural beautyMany travelers seek destinations where they can enjoy this phenomenon, with Canada being one of the most popular places due to its accessibility and the frequency of auroras. Provinces such as Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories are known for their stunning night viewsIf you are interested in seeing this spectacle in Europe, do not hesitate to consult our guide on northern lights in Spain.
The northern lights are not only visible in northern Canada, but on special occasions, such as during geomagnetic storms, they can be observed even further south. For example, during a recent intense solar storm, the aurora was visible in regions of the northern United States, such as New York and Michigan. These events are not common, but when they occur, they create a visual spectacle that transcends borders and unites people in the experience. This phenomenon can also be experienced in other parts of the world, as discussed in our article on northern lights in Spain.
Furthermore, the pictures The aurora borealis has gained popularity in the field of night photography, where amateurs and professionals compete to capture the beauty of this phenomenon. DSLR cameras are often recommended to capture the essence of the auroras, as cell phones generally fail to capture the subtleties of the colors and shapes displayed in the sky.
For those lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, the moment is indescribable. The lights they dance in the sky, creating a constantly moving spectacle that seems like something out of a dream. Although these lights can be seen in distant places, there is a special sense of connection when experiencing them in person. If you're looking for the perfect destination to experience this, we recommend Kiruna, the city of the Northern Lights, which is famous for its beauty and opportunities to view the phenomenon.
Impact of solar storms on the northern lights
Solar storms are phenomena related to solar activity that can have a significant impact on the visibility and intensity of the northern lights. During geomagnetic storms, such as those recently recorded, the Earth's magnetic field is affected, causing the auroras to be visibly more intense and even extend to lower latitudes. This phenomenon has been studied in depth, as mentioned in our article on space hurricanes.
For example, in May 2024, Canada experienced one of the most intense solar storms in the past 20 years, which made the northern lights visible in places like Vancouver. Scientists warn that active space weather can cause interference with communication systems, electrical networks y satellite navigation due to energetic particles reaching the Earth's atmosphere, which underscores the importance of monitoring these conditions.
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), for example, issues geomagnetic storm warnings and forecasts for the potential visibility of the Northern Lights based on solar activity. The predictions are made based on the detection of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are explosions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun that, upon reaching Earth, interact with our magnetic field. These explosions can be enormous and, depending on their direction and strength, can trigger auroras at latitudes that wouldn't normally experience them.
Recommendations for observing the Northern Lights
If you're planning to observe the Northern Lights, here are some recommendations that can help you maximize your experience:
- Choose the right place: Look for areas away from light pollution. Canada's northern provinces are ideal.
- Check the forecasts: Check solar activity and geomagnetic storm alerts to plan your observation.
- Equip yourself properly: Wear warm clothing and consider bringing a good quality camera to capture the moment.
- Experiment with patience: Sometimes the auroras don't appear immediately; it's vital to wait and enjoy the nightscape.
The Northern Lights represent a bridge between science and natural beauty. Every time we observe these dancing lights, we are reminded of our connection to the universe and the magnificence of the phenomena that surround us. Whether from the warmth of our homes or in the midst of nature, the magic of the auroras invites us to reflect and appreciate the vastness of the cosmos.
