Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is a natural light display in Earth's polar regions caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with our planet's magnetic field. These particles collide with gases like oxygen and nitrogen in Earth's atmosphere, releasing energy that produces colorful, shimmering lights. The colors vary depending on the type of gas and altitude—green is most common, with red, purple, and pink also possible. This mesmerizing phenomenon typically appears during periods of high solar activity and clear, dark nights, creating a captivating display of natural beauty near the poles.