Rare 'Green Polar Rain' Aurora Observed from Earth for the First Time
In a remarkable and unprecedented event, a rare and eerie green aurora was observed from the ground over the Arctic during Christmas 2022. This unique phenomenon, described as a 'polar rain' aurora, left scientists both puzzled and fascinated. Now, Japanese and US-based researchers have uncovered the mystery behind this extraordinary celestial display. The green glow that appeared during the holiday season was not the typical aurora display most are familiar with. Unlike the usual auroras, which are characterized by dynamic shapes and pulsating lights, this aurora was a smooth, featureless glow that spanned an impressive 2,485 miles (4,000 kilometers). The tranquil aurora, observed by an All-Sky Electron Multiplying Charge-Coupled Device (EMCCD) camera in Longyearbyen, Norway, had never been seen from Earth before. Auroras generally occur when electrons from the solar wind become trapped in the Earth’s magnetotail — an extension of the Earth's magnetic field....
