Aurorae

The Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis have inspired people for thousands of years, and modern-day adventurers travel to aurora hotspots to glimpse them. Bryony Lanigan, an Astronomer at Royal Observatory Greenwich, explores the science behind these displays, from astronomy and solar physics to geology and atomic physics. She also reveals that the spectacle has been observed elsewhere in our Solar System.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: National Maritime Museum

For countless generations, the mesmerizing dance of colors in the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis has ignited the imagination of people around the world. Today, adventurous souls embark on journeys to the aurora hotspots, eager to catch a glimpse of these ethereal spectacles. Bryony Lanigan, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, is a true explorer, uniting diverse fields of research, including astronomy, solar physics, geology, and atomic physics, to unravel the science behind these awe-inspiring displays.

As we embark on this scientific journey, we delve into the electromagnetic spectrum, uncovering its mysteries. We also explore the fundamental principles of atomic physics, encountering a phenomenon with a rather enigmatic name. Moreover, we gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role played by magnets, particularly those of colossal proportions, in the intricate dance of aurorae.

However, our exploration does not end on Earth. Lanigan reveals that the aurora phenomenon has been observed beyond our planet's boundaries. She sheds light on the complexities and challenges encountered when attempting to explain aurorae on other celestial bodies, as they often defy the explanations we have painstakingly developed.

In conclusion, the study of the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis is a captivating blend of science, exploration, and wonder. Through the expertise of Bryony Lanigan and her multidisciplinary approach, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate mechanisms that drive these celestial marvels and the vastness of our universe.

Dimension: 178 x 109 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781906367961