Why Are Auroras Of Different Colours?
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14 May 2024
Auroras result from collisions between electrons from space and oxygen and nitrogen molecules in our atmosphere
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According to NASA, electrons from Earth's magnetosphere excite these molecules, causing them to emit photons or light bursts
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The emitted light creates the ghostly glow of the aurora, visible in the night sky
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Different gases emit different colours when excited by electrons—oxygen emits greenish-yellow or red light
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Nitrogen typically emits a blue light when excited during auroras
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Special cameras on satellites can detect ultraviolet light emitted by oxygen and nitrogen molecules
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The shape of the aurora varies based on the origin of the electrons and atmospheric conditions
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Auroras usually occur in ring-shaped areas centred around Earth's magnetic poles, called auroral ovals
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Prime viewing locations for auroras include Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and the northernmost United States
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On rare occasions, auroras can be visible as far south as Florida or Japan
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