The northern lights have always been a breathtaking heavenly representation, the people around the world fascinating. But something unusual has happened lately – Ohroras are more frequently and in unexpected places appear.
From the United States to Europe and even regions that are far from the Poles, these shining light strips have made surprising appearances. The reason? A strong shift in solar activity that has been bringing some of the most spectacular Auroras for decades.
Why do Auroras appear more often?
That is in the heart of this phenomenon Sun 11-year-old sun cycle. We are currently entering the so -called solar maximum – a peak time in which the sun becomes more active and stronger solar storms that affect the earth's atmosphere.
These storms occur when the sun breaks plasma and magnetic energy that are called coronal mass changes (CMES). When these waves of invited particles reach the earth, they interact with the magnetic field of the planet and trigger the breathtaking color committees, which are known as aurora borealis in the north and the Aurora Austria in the south.
With the solar maximum in full swing, these storms have intensified, which Auroras makes more often, brighter and further visible by the Poles.
Auroras seen in unusual places
Auroras are limited to regions near the Arctic and Antarctic circles. But in the past few months, mighty solar storms have brought these displays to areas in which they are rarely seen.
In May 2024A particularly strong geomagnetic storm brought Auroras deep to the United States, with sightings to Arizona, Texas and even Florida.
This happens when an intensive solar storm overwhelmed the magnetic shield of the earth and enables Auroras to go beyond its usual polar borders. As a result, people who had never expected to see the northern lights could experience these incredible displays directly from their own backyards.
Can solar storms be dangerous?
While Auroras are harmless themselves Solar storms The cause can disturb modern technology.
Heavy geomagnetic storms can damage satellites, impair GPS signals and even influence the power grids. One of the most extreme examples was that Carrington event from 1859When a massive solar storm led to telegraph beams triggering and catching the fire.
If a similar storm would hit today, the effects on communication, aviation and the Internet could be significant. For this reason, scientists monitor the sun activity and output of warnings when strong storms are expected.
The best time to see Auroras is now
With the solar maximum, 2024 and 2025 have become some of the best for the Aurora tour for decades.
Regardless of whether you travel to Iceland, Alaska or Nordkanada or simply go outside during the next big solar storm, the night sky is organizing an unforgettable show.
For those who have always wanted to see the Northern Lights, the perfect time is now. Keep the sky in mind – you never know when the next shear will appear.