The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is an incredible natural phenomenon that occurs in the night sky in the northern hemisphere. The lights are a result of the collision between electrically charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s atmosphere. Here are some amazing facts about the Northern Lights that kids are sure to enjoy:
1. The Aurora Borealis is named after the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek name for the north wind, Boreas.
2. The Northern Lights can be seen from many places in the world, but they can only be seen in the northern hemisphere.
3. The lights occur between September and April, but they are most visible during the winter months.
4. The best time to see the Northern Lights is at night when the sky is dark and clear.
5. The Northern Lights can appear in many different colors, including green, pink, blue, purple and red.
6. The lights are caused by particles from the sun, which are carried by solar winds towards the Earth.
7. The particles collide with atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere, causing energy to be released in the form of light.
8. The Northern Lights are most commonly seen in countries such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, Alaska, Canada, and Iceland.
9. The strength and frequency of the Northern Lights vary depending on the activity of the sun. During periods of high solar activity, the Northern Lights can be seen further south and can be more intense.
10. The Northern Lights have been known to be accompanied by strange sounds, such as crackling or hissing noises.
11. Some people believe that the Northern Lights can bring good luck or fortune to those who witness them.
