The Secrets of Aurora Borealis: 7 Surprising Facts You Never Knew

1. Aurora Borealis is not unique to Earth, it can also be observed on other planets in our solar system, including Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars.

2. The scientific term for Aurora Borealis is "aurora polaris" or "northern lights" because it can only be observed in the northern hemisphere.

3. Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun, also known as solar wind, interact with Earth's magnetosphere.

4. The most common color of Aurora Borealis is green, which is caused by collisions with oxygen atoms at an altitude of about 60 miles.

5. Aurora Borealis can also appear in shades of red, yellow, blue, and purple, depending on the altitude and type of gas particles involved.

6. In ancient times, Aurora Borealis was believed to be a sign of impending disaster or war, and some cultures believed that it was the spirits of their ancestors.

7. Aurora Borealis can be seen from space, and it has been photographed by astronauts on the International Space Station.