The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, is a brilliant and beautiful atmospheric phenomenon in high-altitude regions near the North and South Poles.

It is caused by charged particles from the sun, known as solar wind, entering Earth's magnetic field. The aurora borealis is a unique and visible high-altitude atmospheric phenomenon.

The aurora is an optical phenomenon in the uppermost layer of Earth's atmosphere, located 100-200 kilometres above the surface. Three main factors contribute to its formation: solar wind, Earth's magnetic field, and the atmosphere. Solar wind is the continuous emission of energy from the sun, composed of electrons and protons.

Charged particles are emitted due to the intense activity of the sun. When they enter the influence of Earth's magnetic field, they rapidly enter the high-altitude atmosphere near the North and South magnetic poles. There, they collide with oxygen atoms, nitrogen molecules, and other particles, resulting in "geomagnetic storms" and visible light, creating mesmerizing auroras.

For a long time, the cause of auroras remained inadequately explained. Various theories suggested that distant fires outside Earth could cause auroras, the glowing afterglow of the setting sun, or the release of stored energy from polar ice and snow. Only in the 1960s, with the combination of ground observations and data from satellites and rockets, did a more comprehensive physical description of auroras emerge.

Today, it is understood that auroras are intricately linked to the large-scale interaction between Earth's high-altitude atmosphere, its magnetic field, and the high-speed charged particle streams emitted by the sun, known as solar wind.

These three elements—atmosphere, magnetic field, and solar wind—are essential for forming auroras. Other planets in the solar system, such as Jupiter and Mercury, also exhibit auroras, confirming this phenomenon's dependence on these conditions.

There are many once-in-a-lifetime experiences in the world, and witnessing the aurora is considered one of them. In Nordic folklore, there is an ancient belief that seeing the aurora once in a lifetime will make all wishes come true.

So, where are the aurora sanctuaries globally? The following places offer not only an increased chance of success but also breathtaking and awe-inspiring views:

1. Tromsø, Norway:

Tromsø, one of Norway's northernmost cities, is renowned for its Nordic charm and is an ideal choice for those opposed to extreme cold. Influenced by the warm currents of the North Pacific, the average nighttime temperature in winter is around minus five degrees Celsius.

Recognized as one of the best places to witness the aurora, Tromsø, with its unique northern latitude, is often called the "Gateway to the Arctic."

Snow-covered mountains surround the town, and when the aurora appears, the world seems to fade into insignificance.

2. Iceland:

Iceland, a sparsely populated Arctic island, boasts untouched wilderness areas perfect for admiring the Northern Lights. Even in the capital city, Reykjavik, where city lights abound at night, they fail to overshadow the beauty of the aurora.

In Iceland's vast and dark wilderness, the Northern Lights often shine even more brightly. Aurora activity is prevalent throughout the year in Iceland, but due to the limited brightness of the auroras, they require a sufficiently dark environment to stand out. Iceland remains in daylight for almost the entire summer, making it impossible to see the Northern Lights during the summer and daylight hours of winter.

The Northern Lights create a captivating spectacle with their vibrant and ever-changing colours. In the vast and silent polar regions, against the backdrop of an expansive and starry sky, the allure of this phenomenon is undeniable. Facing the colourful auroral patterns, dear reader, it is safe to say that it is an intoxicating and enchanting experience that captures the imagination.