Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Calgary Researchers Unveil Mystery Behind Northern Lights' Beauty

1/12/2025

41 3

Summary

Story summary

Researchers at the University of Calgary have unveiled the mystery behind a greyish patch in the night sky, associated with the mesmerizing northern lights. In their groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications, they explore "structured continuum emission," a vibrant new element that enhances the beauty of the iconic green and red auroras, as explained by lead author Dr. Emma Spanswick.

1 of 1

Story summary

Researchers at the University of Calgary have unveiled the mystery behind a greyish patch in the night sky, associated with the mesmerizing northern lights. In their groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications, they explore "structured continuum emission," a vibrant new element that enhances the beauty of the iconic green and red auroras, as explained by lead author Dr. Emma Spanswick.