Aurora is the collective name given to the photons (light) emitted by atoms, molecules and ions that have been excited by energetic charged particles (principally electrons) travelling along magnetic field lines into the Earth’s upper atmosphere. Aurora results from the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth’s magnetic field.

The colours in the aurora result from photons from specific energy level transitions in excited atoms, molecules and ions of the upper atmosphere returning to their lowest energy state. There are thousands of individual colours in an auroral display, but three are dominant in the visible spectrum. The brightest auroral line is generally a green line emitted by excited oxygen atoms. A red diffuse glow results from another oxygen atom transition. A purple colour results from a transition in a Nitrogen molecular ion. The mixture of the major green, red and purple emissions may combine to give aurora a general ‘whiteish’ appearance.

In Fairbanks, the aurora can be reached for almost 243 days (i.e. 2/3 year) in a year. Chena Hot Spring Resort is located about 45 kilometer north of Fairbanks. Enjoy viewing the breath-taking beauty in Alaska.