Probably, everyone has heard of auroras — a relatively rare occasion that turns polar skies into a real light display of green and reddish colours. This beautiful show, aka aurora borealis, happens when molecules from the Sun, hit our planet’s magnetic shield and are best observed up north, which is why these lights are also called polar.

But our planet has a Southern Hemisphere, so does this mean there are Southern lights, too? Yes! The southern light show, Aurora Australis, almost mirrors its better-known counterpart, but not quite. They are neither identical nor precise, mirrored reflections of one another.

Below, describe what causes this peculiar shining, explain the difference between the northern and southern lights, and mention a few spots where you can observe them.

What Causes the Shining & Where It’s Best Seen?

Some layers of the Sun’s atmosphere consist of highly ionised plasma that drives solar particles away from our star. Eventually, this wind ‘crashes’ into our atmosphere, exciting particles of nitrogen and oxygen. They start emitting radiation at visible light spectrums, which, to our eyes, looks like colourful shining in the sky.

Usually, we see red or green hues, which is the shining oxygen. Sometimes, these lights can appear purple, orange, or pink — and these hues are brought on by nitrogen. Technically, northern and southern lights are located in the atmosphere’s upper layers, with green oxygen-powered shining occurring at altitudes of 145-300 km; rarer, reddish glow happens at 300-400 km altitude because that’s where oxygen concentration is lower, and solar ions have to make do with nitrogen instead.

At such altitudes, our eyes are less sensitive to the light show, but that’s not the only reason why reddish shades are less common. They do not occur as often because our atmosphere is not so dense at this altitude, so there are simply fewer ‘collisions.’ That is why purple auroras typically happen at solar maximum, peak times of our star’s activity that occur once per decade and when there are more ions bombarding us from above.

From our land-based perspective, where are the northern and southern lights located? Both occur s, at 60° and 75° latitudes, the northern and southern poles. These regions are also called auroral ovals – that’s where our atmospheric shield is most condensed, so we get to admire the bright collisions as they happen.

What is the difference between North and South Aurora? 

Judging from what causes this shining, there should be little distinction between Northern lights and Southern ones— and, to a certain extent, it’s true. For many years, scientists actually believed that these two are mirrored reflections of one another, with Southern lights occurring from March till September (up North, it’s in reverse). However, careful observations have shown mismatches in aurora patterns primarily caused by asymmetric magnetic field alignments between Earth and the Sun. Simply put, the impact angle is skewered at most times, so the collisions do not occur with the same intensity or in the same spots. This is the primary distinction between North shining and Southern lights— these two are never the same in shade or intensity, and their observation periods differ due to our planet’s rotation axis relative to the Sun.

One more difference becomes clear if have a closer look at the Northern and Southern lights map. In southern areas, shining occurs in less populated regions, if populated at all. So, southern lights visibility is simply better because you are far from city lights and nothing interferes with your view.

So, are the Southern lights better than the Northern lights? In theory, this might well be true, but there is a catch when it comes to practice. There simply aren’t enough places to observe southern night glows because, for the best visibility, you would need to be aboard a ship somewhere in the ocean, closer to the southern pole. Such cruises do exist, but they generally sail in March because that’s when the seas are passable.

Our better-known celestial spectacle, aurora borealis, is way easier to catch because there are plenty of land areas that boast good visibility of this phenomenon. Russian tundra might not be the best choice, of course — even considering its next-to-zero light pollution (or because of it). Scandinavian countries, however, have an excellent tourist infrastructure, with proper roads, public commute routes, and accommodation (not to mention a few other sights any of these countries can offer).

Southern lights, unfortunately, have a rather limited range of observation spots from land. At times of solar maximum, you may see them in some southern parts of Australia and New Zealand, but the best show usually happens in the open seas. Still, this year is, in fact, a solar maximum, so even southern areas are good observation spots. So, our last tip to anyone hoping to see northern and southern lights today is to check forecasts, giving up to 30-minute warnings, on space weather resources, like NOAA or SpaceWeatherLive. And don’t forget your camera! 
Author: Emma Thorpe

Japan has many beautiful places to visit; the country is blessed with natural beauty. The country has many gorgeous places that feel magical and unreal to exist. If you are like me who is amazed at the natural beauty of Japan, then this article is for you. In this post, we will talk about Yellow spring road Japan – one of the best places to visit in 2024. So, let’s begin.

Origin And Culture Significance Of Yellow Spring Road Japan

The Yellow Spring Road in Japan is covered with Ginkgo trees. They were planted around the early 1900s and started gaining locals’ and tourists’ attention. During the fall season, their colour becomes vibrant yellow. Approximately 140 Ginkgo trees are planted there; they are believed as the symbol of longevity and resilience. Ginkgo trees are one of the oldest tree species in the world. Some consider it sacred and use it for medical purposes; the tree has several health benefits.

Moreover, the place is used in many movies and shows; it enhances the viewing experience of viewers with its fantabulous natural beauty.

Features Of Yellow Spring Road Japan 

Yellow Spring Road Japan is a treat for the eyes; every corner is picture-perfect, and many times, you may feel that pictures do not justify their natural beauty and fantastic vibe. Surrounded by greenery, the place is a tourist attraction. In addition, the place is full of local attractions; if you are visiting Hirokawa for Yellow Spring Road, you can explore other outstanding places.

The place reflects the rich culture of Japan, its history, and its commitment to keeping the country a rich cultural heritage.

Best Time Visit Yellow Spring Road In Japan

Nature has many seasons, and every season has its specialty. In autumn, the leaves of trees in Yellow Spring Road start turning Yellow and cover the entire area with its colourful presence. This season is best for Yellow Spring Road, which generally begins in September and ends in November.

Special Events And Activities

Apart from Yellow Spring Road, you can visit Japan for multiple other things and their cultural events and festivals are one of them. During the year, many special events happen in the country, with the visiting of Yellow Spring Road, you will get a chance to see their culture closely and learn great things.

If you are an adventure lover, then you may love the autumn season in Japan. There are many activities to do with trees and other things. We can’t forget food; the food of Japan is super healthy, and they live a healthy life—the secret lies behind their lifestyle and food choices. 

In a nutshell, the trip to Yellow Spring Road in Japan is a must for everyone who can afford it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is Yellow Spring Road In Japan?

It is called “Kibuna no Michi” in Japanese. Known for its vibrant yellow colour and natural beauty, Yellow Spring Road is located in multiple regions of Japan. You can plan a trip according to your convenience.

What Are The Popular Places To Find Yellow Spring Road in Japan?

As discussed, it is available in multiple regions. Still, primarily, you can find Yellow Spring Road in Hokkaido, Nagano, Shizuoka, and other districts of Japan.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Yellow Spring Road?

The best time to visit Yellow Spring Road is during autumn. September to November are the best months to plan a trip to Yellow Spring Road in 2024.

Conclusion 

Who doesn’t like spending time in nature and living a peaceful life? With our daily struggles, we often forget to praise the natural beauty of our world. Places like Yellow Spring Road in Japan remind us to take a pause and embrace the nature around us. If you like reading this post, then share it with others and let them know about this gorgeous place.