Aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, has been putting on a spectacular show in Iceland. The phenomenon occurs when solar activity triggers geomagnetic storms, causing energetic particles to penetrate the Earth's upper atmosphere at high latitudes. This results in vibrant, greenish lights dancing across the night sky. The eerie display was captured by photographer Stéphane Vetter at Hverir, a geothermally active area in northeastern Iceland. The area's volcanic landscape and steam vents add to the otherworldly atmosphere. As the Sun is still in the early stages of decline from its peak solar activity cycle, auroral activity is expected to remain high. This natural light show is a reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty of the Earth's natural wonders. For those lucky enough to witness it, the aurora borealis is a truly unforgettable experience.
Nature
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Prepared with AI assistance; not independently fact-checked. Original source: NASA