What causes auroras? – Space weather

Uploaded on June 26, 2015

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What causes auroras? – Space weather

2015-06-27 - Solar eruptions produce huge bursts of electrical energy and particles that interact with both the upper atmosphere and the Earth's magnetic field, causing a range of effects including the northern and southern lights. While auroras make for a spectacular light show, they can also disrupt radio communications.

The Canadian Space Agency supports the universities of Alberta, Calgary, and Waterloo to better understand space weather and increase the resilience of Canadian infrastructure. The CSA is also a partner in AuroraMAX, an initiative designed to raise awareness of the science of the aurora, and how the Sun's relationship with Earth affects our daily lives. (Credits: Canadian Space Agency, NASA)

Solar eruptions produce huge bursts of electrical energy and particles. When they collide with gases in the Earth’s upper atmosphere and interacte with the magnetic field, they light up the sky in a spectacular light show of auroras!

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