Geomagnetic storm creates dazzling display

Heather Ainsley ECB Publishing, Inc. Over the weekend of May 10, people around the globe have been privy to a spectacular display of “northern lights,” which were visible in colors ranging from bright pink to purple and even blue and green. This is caused by what is called a “geomagnetic storm,” or a “solar storm,” that is caused by a sizable solar flare or series of flares. Solar flares typically take place in active regions of the sun, which are active due to strong magnetic fields and can be indicated by “sunspots.” As the magnetic fields shift and change, they can become unstable and bursts of energy are then released, making their way to Earth in just eight minutes.