The World-Famous Aurora Borealis

Aurora Borealis (which you can see from Alaska) means 'Dawn of the North.' The Aurora is very dynamic and exhibits systematic motions on a global scale. Auroral activity varies from year to year because the sun is more or less active according to an eleven year cycle.

The Aurora's light is produced by a high vacuum electrical discharge. An electrical discharge is the passage of electricity through thin gas usually accompanied by a glow, arc or spark.

Energy from the sun creates the Aurora. Auroral color depends on the type of atoms and molecules struck by the energetic particles. Throughout a single night, the auroral display varies in intensity and form according to a process know as the auroral substorm.

For More Information About the Aurora, Feel Free to Contact:

Business Office
Geophysical Institute/UAF
P.O.Box 757320
Fairbanks, Alaska 99775-7320

All photos as noted ©2005 Madoka Fukushima (opens new window).
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