The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a stunning natural phenomenon resulting from the interaction between charged particles from the sun and the Earth's atmosphere
This light show occurs primarily in polar regions, where the Earth's magnetic field directs solar wind particles toward the poles.
When these high-energy particles collide with gases in the atmosphere, they excite the atoms, causing them to emit light in various colors, predominantly green and red from oxygen, and blue and purple from nitrogen
Historically, the auroras have inspired myths and legends across cultures. For instance, the Sami people of Scandinavia viewed them as the spirits of the deceased, while Finnish folklore depicted them as a magical fox
The term "aurora borealis" was coined by Galileo in 1619, combining the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, with Boreas, the Greek god of the north wind.
The best time to observe the Northern Lights is during winter months, particularly between September and April, when the nights are longest and darkest.
Ideal viewing locations include northern Norway, Alaska, and Canada, where light pollution is minimal.