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Tuesday, February 03, 2015

Solar Wind Sparks Auroras



Solar Wind Sparks Auroras

A stream of high-speed solar wind is buffeting Earth's magnetic field, and this is sparking bright auroras around the Arctic Circle. "A geomagnetic storm hit Alaska last night with huge activity seen from horizon to horizon," reports Sacha M. Layos, who sends this picture from Fairbanks:


Normally, full moonlight wipes out auroras, but these auroras were so bright they could be seen despite the glare. Moreover, the moon illuminated the snow-frosted trees, making a photogenic frame for the lights overhead.
More auroras are in the offing. NOAA estimates a 50% chance of continued geomagnetic storming on Feb. 3rd as the solar wind continues to blow.

From SpaceWeather.com

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