bright lights

Guest

Having lived in Washington State, I saw the aurora beaurealis (sp). Since you are right there, do you see it, too?

Joined: 23 Mar 2004 Posts: 64

Hello Tarzan!
It is easier to spell Northern Lights! The Aurora Borealis is an awesome phenomena here in the Arctic . . . just not during the summer! All night long, and I use the term "night" as a time point rather than a situation, it is as bright as mid-day. It does not even turn to dusk! The sun glows 24-7 during this time frame, basically from April 20 through August 23. This is called the Midnight Sun. Since we will depart around August 20th and the time difference is ahead of the US, I will not see darkness again until I am landing in Texas! It is amazing to look out my window at 2 or 3 in the morning and have the sun shining so brightly. How silly of me to have thought to bring a flashlight!

The dates for Polar Night, when there is no sun and the only real light comes from the moonlight (when you can see the moon in various phases and through the clouds, that is) is from November 14 through January 29. During the in between times, there is varying amounts of daylight leading to totally light and totally dark. The autumn, winter, and early spring are the times to see some of the beautiful Northern Lights! Do you know what causes them?

Guest

Yes, it is easier to spell (and say) Norhtern Lights.

I have no idea what causes those bright lights so far south. I can't imagine any source other than light reflecting off the clouds? A strong moon?