Northern Sights: #framethatview of the Aurora Borealis

At Eyeconic, we know that healthy eyesight is key to enjoying everything planet Earth has to offer. To that end, we encourage you to use #framethatview on social media to share your favorite sights.

The aurora borealis, or northern lights, are one such feast for the eyes. Vibrant greens, yellows, pinks, reds, and violets dance across the sky in a natural phenomenon that has been enjoyed for as long as people have been looking skyward.

Every year tourists flock to Alaska, Canada, and the Nordic countries to see the aurora borealis for themselves. While the lights are beautiful, the explanation for their appearance provides an opportunity for us to appreciate our place in the cosmos.

What Causes the Northern Lights?

The northern lights occur when particles from the Sun slam into the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with molecules of oxygen and nitrogen. These particles follow the magnetic field towards the pole, which is why you see the aurora borealis at high latitudes. The same phenomenon is visible at the south pole, where it’s known as the aurora australis.

The palate of colors we see is the result of interactions among different gas molecules at various altitudes. The particles are part of the solar wind, a constant stream of matter traveling outwards from the Sun. The beautiful display of lights is a reminder that without the Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere, our bodies would be bombarded with dangerous particles every day.

When and Where Can You See the Northern Lights?

The aurora borealis vary in intensity depending on the strength of the solar wind, but you can see the northern lights any time of year. Location is key—high latitudes have the advantage, so be prepared to don warm clothing to witness this spectacle.

Have you seen the northern lights? Tag your photos with #framethatview to share them with us.