Northern lights (aurora borealis): what they are and how to see them

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are mesmerizing ribbons of light that have fascinated humanity for thousands of years. Despite their serene beauty, this breathtaking display results from a highly energetic and turbulent process. The aurora forms when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth's upper atmosphere at incredible speeds — up to 45 million mph (72 million kph). Thankfully, our planet's magnetic field acts as a protective shield, preventing these solar particles from causing harm while creating the stunning spectacle we know as the northern lights. As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles — there are southern lights, too, which you can read about below — the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike. The northern lights give us a unique window into our sun's activity, space weather and Earth's magnetic field.