✦ Today's cosmos

Lapland Northern Lights

NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day · April 8, 2016
Lapland Northern Lights
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Image credit & copyright: Juan Carlos Casado · via NASA APOD
◆ What you're looking at
rly spring in the northern hemisphere is good season for aurora hunters. Near an equinox Earth's magnetic field is oriented to favor interactions with the solar wind that trigger the alluring glow of the northern lights. On March 28/29 the skies over Kaunispää Hill, Lapland, Finland did not disappoint. That night's expansive auroral curtains are captured in this striking panoramic view that covers a full 360 degrees. Local skywatchers were mesmerized by bright displays lasted throughout the dark hours, shimmering with colors easily visible to the naked eye.