Auroras, sometimes called the northern and southern (polar) lights or aurorae

(singular: aurora), are natural light displays in the sky, usually observed at night,

particularly in the polar region.

Typically occur in the ionosphere.

Also referred to as polar auroras.

Sun emits charged particles

Particle form Solar Wind Solar Wind being captured by Earth’s

magnetosphere

Particles trapped in Van Allen Belts drawn up to

the Earth’s magnetic poles

The excited electrons emit energy in form of

light AURORA

• Poleward arcs.

• Theta aurora and Dayside arcs.

• Flickering aurora, Black aurora and Subvisual red arcs.

October 30, 2003 Aurora February 10, 2008 ,

Homer, Alaska November 7, 2004,southeastern Minnesota