Northern Lights
According to scientific explanation, the Northern Lights are triggered by a solar wind carrying photons and electrons that release energy from nitrogen and oxygen atoms it encounters in earth’s magnetic field. The released energy travels along magnetic lines of force and when it reaches the northern and southern Polar Regions, it produces forms of colored light. All this activity takes place in the ionosphere, between 60 km to 500 km above ground level.

A clear, moonless night is the best time for viewing the Lights, regardless of the season. Wintertime is ideal for watching the sky because long dark nights provide the best background for showcasing the celestial activity. Fort McMurray provides the perfect setting for Northern Lights gazing as it is located on the edge of the auroral belt which roughly centers on the 65th parallel.

Northern LightsAlthough many other northern locations have similar displays of the Northern Lights, very few can offer the same amenities Fort McMurray has. Slightly warmer temperatures and a relatively short journey that can be made by car or airplane from Edmonton are just a few advantages of viewing the Northern Lights in Fort McMurray.

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Aurora BorealisFort McMurray is aptly named “Alberta’s Northern Light”.  On a clear winter night, chances are you will witness one of nature's most spectacular performances. Ribbons of green, red, pink, and yellow light will swing and sway to a silent song, dancing on a stage of bright stars embedded in a dark sky.
These are the famed Aurora Borealis – the Northern Lights.

(We did not witness the Northern Lights in our visit in early September.  These beautiful pictures are from the Internet.)