DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is on display tonight. Here's how it works:
The Sun constantly emits a stream of charged particles called solar wind, which consists mainly of electrons and protons. When these charged particles approach Earth, they are guided by Earth's magnetic field toward the polar regions. As the solar particles collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere, primarily oxygen and nitrogen, they transfer energy to these atmospheric molecules. This energy excites the gas molecules, causing them to move into a higher energy state. When they return to their normal state, they release this excess energy as light. Different gases emit different colors. For example, oxygen often produces green and red lights, while nitrogen can produce blue or purple hues. The intensity and shape of the auroras vary depending on solar activity and interactions with Earth's magnetic field.
Temperatures are hovering in the single digits and lower teens, so it's best to dress in layers when viewing the aurora. Some clouds will also return later this evening, so the earlier the better for viewing.
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