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Northern lights over Murmansk
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Northern lights over Murmansk
Northern lights. View of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, photographed above the Russian city of Murmansk. The Northern Lights are created as electrically charged particles from the Solar wind are pulled in toward the magnetic poles by the Earths magnetic field. As these particles collide with the atoms of gas in the ionosphere about 80km above the ground, they give the atoms energy and they become excited. The atoms spontaneously release this energy in discrete amounts, resulting in particular colours of light being emitted. Green light is given off by excited atoms of oxygen. Photographed on 16 April 2007
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Media ID 6330107
© RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Atmosphere Atom Atomic Atoms Aurora City Cityscape Emission Energy Ethereal Glow Ionosphere Level Light Lights Murmansk Night Northern Optical Oxygen Phenomenon Quantum Physics Russia Borealis Curtain Spooky
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights as they dance gracefully over the enchanting cityscape of Murmansk, Russia. The ethereal curtains of light illuminate the night sky, creating a spooky yet awe-inspiring atmosphere that leaves viewers in sheer wonder. The phenomenon of Aurora Borealis is explained by the interaction between electrically charged particles from the Solar wind and Earth's magnetic field. As these particles are drawn towards the magnetic poles, they collide with gas atoms in the ionosphere, located approximately 80km above ground level. This collision energizes and excites these atoms, causing them to release energy in specific amounts and emit various colors of light. In this particular photograph taken on 16 April 2007, vibrant green hues dominate as excited oxygen atoms give off their distinct glow. The landscape becomes an otherworldly spectacle where quantum physics meets natural artistry. Science Photo Library has masterfully captured this breathtaking display of nature's brilliance without any commercial intentions. Through this image, we can appreciate both the scientific marvel behind such phenomena and its profound impact on our visual senses. It serves as a reminder that even within our modern world, there are still wonders waiting to be discovered and admired in all their splendorous glory.
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