Lady Aurora

 In the last couple of years I have developed a fascination with the Aurora Borealis. As a Canadian, one would think that it was a common experience for us, but living in Southern Ontario puts us too far south to enjoy the Aurora on a regular basis.  The last time I remember seeing a good show, where I could look up and watch it dance, was probably close to 40 years ago.

A couple of years ago I joined an Ontario Aurora Chasers Facebook Group and have been trying to catch a glimpse her ever since.  More often than not she is shy requiring a camera to reveal colors our eyes can't detect.

I was thrilled when a significant magnetic storm occurred on May 10th. We drove an hour north and, although we could only see her faintly, we managed to capture her on camera. Later in the summer, I was lucky enough to catch another glimpse, this time through some clouds.

Yesterday we experienced a powerful geomagnetic storm, which is still ongoing as I write this post. Once night fell I went out with a group of friends. Once again we drove north for about an hour to escape the city lights find darker skies. 

overhead photo taken by my friend Michele

Immediately we were able to faintly see the Aurora so we set up our cameras and began capturing the moment.  After about an hour the sky transformed, and we were treated with a breathtaking display.  For about 15 minutes, we stood in awe as Lady Aurora danced across the sky.  It was an incredible show! It was an experience I won't soon forget.