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 f