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Researchers from the University of Calgary have provided the first explanation for a whitish, grey patch that sometimes appears in the night sky near the northern lights.
The findings, published on December 30 in the journal Nature Communications, discuss a phenomenon called “structured continuum emission” linked to the aurora borealis.
Dr. Emma Spanswick, the lead author and an associate professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, explains, “When you see the vibrant green auroras and some red hues in the background, there’s suddenly this distinct grey or white patch associated with the aurora.”
She adds, “Naturally, scientists will ask, ‘What is that?'”
While previous studies have mentioned this white patch, it has never been clarified until now.
The researchers concluded that this patch is “most certainly a heat source,” indicating that the aurora borealis might be more intricate than previously understood.
Spanswick attributes this discovery to advancements in camera technology that enable both hobbyists and researchers to capture true-color images of the night sky.
She notes, “With the improvements in digital photography, even your cellphone can take pictures of the aurora. This technology has evolved into robust commercial sensors used in scientific research.”
The research gained traction following renewed interest in continuum emission due to observations of a distinct purple light ribbon known as STEVE—an acronym for Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement.
“There are parallels between what we are observing now and STEVE,” Spanswick explains. “STEVE appears as a mauve or grey-toned formation.”
“In terms of spectral elevation, they are quite similar; however, this grey patch is closely linked to the dynamic auroras, making it less noticeable. In contrast, STEVE stands out as a separate band across the sky.”
This research also highlights the contributions of three students from UCalgary, including undergraduate Josh Houghton, who initially joined the project as an intern.
Houghton recalls, “I was just starting my internship when I became heavily involved. It’s an incredible experience.”
Spanswick notes that Houghton played a significant role in analyzing the research, which led to his inclusion in the Nature paper as an undergraduate.
“He’s had an exceptional internship,” she adds.
Houghton plans to continue this research for his undergraduate honours thesis before pursuing a master’s degree at UCalgary next year.
This study was supported by the Transition Region Explorer (TREx), a UCalgary initiative funded by the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, the Government of Alberta, and the Canadian Space Agency.
The TREx RGB and Spectrograph instruments are managed and operated by Space Environment Canada with assistance from the Canadian Space Agency through its Geospace Observatory (GO) Canada program.
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