Polar | Lights Mp4

: As these solar particles slam into atmospheric gases, they "excite" the atoms. To return to their normal state, the atoms release this excess energy as photons . A Palette of Atmospheric Colors

: The Sun constantly emits a stream of charged particles known as the solar wind . Major eruptions, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections, send billions of tons of plasma hurtling toward Earth.

: The most common color, produced by oxygen at lower altitudes (around 60–150 miles up). Polar Lights mp4

: Often result from intense solar storms that excite nitrogen at lower levels. Northern vs. Southern Lights What are the Northern Lights? | Aurora Borealis Explained

: Rare and usually seen at much higher altitudes, also caused by oxygen . Blue and Purple : Triggered by nitrogen atoms. : As these solar particles slam into atmospheric

The specific colors observed depend on the altitude and the type of gas involved:

: Earth's invisible magnetic shield usually deflects these particles. However, at the poles, the magnetic field lines funnel them down into the atmosphere. Major eruptions, such as solar flares or coronal

The journey of the polar lights begins nearly on the Sun.