Notes on Polar Aurora: A Guide

[ajith amboori]

hello
anyone have some notes on polar aurora?








thank you

 

[Astronuc]

Basically an aurora is formed by the interaction of high energy particles and primarily atomic nuclei (or ions) interacting with the Earth's atmosphere near both poles. The nuclei originate in the sun and travel outward as the solar wind.

The nuclei/ions travel along the Earth's magnetic field lines which are more concentrated toward the poles. The solar wind nuclei/ions collide with nitrogen and oxygyen diatomic molecules and atoms, which are themselves ionized. The recombination of ions and electrons produces the colored light seen in the aurora.

Nice article on Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurora_(astronomy)

and my thread - http://www.everything-science.com/index.php?option=com_smf&Itemid=82&topic=5291.0

See also - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geomagnetic_storm

 

[ravenprp]

for your question! Here are some notes on polar auroras:

- Also known as the Northern and Southern Lights, polar auroras are natural light displays in the sky caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth's magnetic field.
- They can be seen in the polar regions, closer to the Earth's magnetic poles.
- The colors of the auroras are determined by the type of gas particles involved in the interaction - oxygen produces green and red lights, while nitrogen produces blue and purple lights.
- The best time to see polar auroras is during the winter months, when the nights are longer and darker in the polar regions.
- The intensity and frequency of polar auroras can vary depending on solar activity, with stronger solar storms resulting in more vibrant and widespread displays.
- Some popular locations to view polar auroras include Alaska, Canada, Norway, and Iceland.
- It is important to dress warmly when viewing polar auroras, as they are best seen at night and in cold temperatures.
- Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning images of polar auroras by using a tripod and a long exposure setting on their cameras.
- It is also possible to predict the occurrence of polar auroras using various websites and apps that track solar activity and geomagnetic storms.
- In some cultures, polar auroras are believed to have spiritual and mystical significance, with legends and stories surrounding their occurrence.
- Overall, polar auroras are a beautiful and fascinating natural phenomenon that should definitely be experienced at least once in a lifetime.