The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, are seen frequently in Alaska as well as other northern latitudes.
The Aurora Borealis can be described as shimmering curtains of light that flutter across the sky.
When charged electrons and protons - released during sunspot activity - drift toward the earth, they are magnetically pulled to the northern and southern latitudes. These charged particles collide with gases in the earth's upper atmosphere and turn luminous - ranging from silvery white through the colors of the rainbow.
The Aurora Borealis is most prevalent over the Arctic Circle but can occur throughout the northern latitudes. The "Northern Lights", at their most dazzling from December to March when nights are longest and the sky darkest.
Quote: "Hardy Alaskans like to put on their parkas and lie on their backs in the snow to watch."
Fairbanks and Chena Hot Springs are popular viewing locations, and there are even "Northern Lights Viewing" tours - though the lights themselves are fairly unpredictable!
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