The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth's upper atmosphere.  These particles, which travel as fast as 45 million mph, interact with nitrogen and oxygen molecules, exciting them and creating light as they return to their normal state. This display occurs primarily near the magnetic poles and is influenced by solar activity, with the brightest auroras often resulting from large solar events like coronal mass ejections.

What causes the Northern Lights phenomenon?

a person standing in front of a waterfall

What causes the Northern Lights? Aurora borealis explained

a green and purple aurora borealis over water

Aurora Borealis: What Causes the Northern Lights & Where to See Them

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

What causes the Northern Lights?

What are the Northern Lights? And how can you see them?

a house in the snow with green lights in the sky

What causes the Northern Lights phenomenon?

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