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Northern lights, Iceland C018 / 2276
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Northern lights, Iceland C018 / 2276
Northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, over the Vatnajokull ice cap, Iceland. Auroral displays are caused by interactions between energetic charged particles from the Sun, and the Earths atmosphere. Moving at 400-500 kilometres a second, the charged particles of the solar wind are drawn by Earths magnetic field to the poles, where they collide with gas atoms and molecules, causing them to emit light. Green light is from oxygen atoms
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Media ID 9210627
© JEREMY WALKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Atmospheric Phenomenon Aurora Borealis Aurorae Auroral Dark Electromagnetic Glacier Glow Glowing Iceland Light Magnetic Night Sky Night Time Northern Lights Oxygen Emission Solar Wind Space Weather
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, dancing over the Vatnajokull ice cap in Iceland. The ethereal auroral displays are a result of an enchanting interplay between energetic charged particles from the Sun and Earth's atmosphere. As these charged particles, propelled at an astonishing speed of 400-500 kilometers per second by the solar wind, approach our planet, they are irresistibly drawn towards Earth's magnetic field. This magnetic force guides them to converge around the poles where they collide with gas atoms and molecules in our atmosphere. These collisions trigger a stunning emission of light that paints the night sky with vibrant hues. In this particular photograph, we witness a breathtaking green glow illuminating the darkness above Iceland's glacier-covered landscape. This luminous spectacle is caused by oxygen atoms releasing their distinct green light during these cosmic encounters. The image not only showcases nature's awe-inspiring display but also highlights its scientific significance. It reminds us of how electromagnetic interactions and space weather can create extraordinary atmospheric phenomena like aurorae. Through this remarkable snapshot captured by Jeremy Walker from Science Photo Library, we are transported into a world where artistry meets astrophysics – an invitation to marvel at one of Earth's most enchanting natural wonders: The Northern lights.
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