Each winter Alaskans welcome the return of our cosmic lightshow. And for the next five years, we will be treated to displays which will be exceptional in their visibility, frequency and intensity. Some scientists theorize that solar flares, sun spots and other activity is the cause of this wonderful event. Others claim there are forces outside of solar activity which contribute to this phenomena.

No matter what the reason for the Aurora's existence, every Alaskan is grateful to witness a spectacle such as this to break up the long winter nights.