Auroras and Space Weather
Seeing the aurora borealis is more than just a memorable experience—it's witnessing a spectacular, otherworldly light show. But what celestial mechanics are behind this brilliant phenomenon? What forces create the shimmering curtains of light we call the Northern Lights? Use this Data Lens mini-lesson, along with the extension reading and short video, to provide your students with an exciting introduction to the space physics that power the aurora.
Context for Use
In this short activity, students will strengthen their critical thinking skills by carefully observing the data, forming ideas, and backing them up with evidence.
While the main goal is to encourage slow, careful observation, this activity also connects to topics like physics, electromagnetic spectrum, techonology, and operational scientific monitoring.
Visualization of the auroral oval over the Northern Hemisphere, showing a bright ring of green and red light centered around the magnetic pole across North America, Europe, and northern Asia.
Goals Header
What Students Will Do
- Students will strengthen their critical thinking skills by carefully observing the data, forming ideas, and backing them up with evidence.
Teaching Materials
Description
Time required: 10-20 minutes
