Dear EarthTalk: Is it true the northern lights will be more intense over the next 50 years, and if so, why? Will this have any negative effect on our environment?

-- H. Binger, via e-mail

The northern lights are considered one of nature's most spectacular displays. These lights are mainly seen from high-latitude areas near the Arctic and occur when the sun releases charged particles during solar winds. These particles move closer to Earth, and are drawn toward its magnetic poles and collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms. When these atoms return to their regular state, they create these lights.

Scientific observations have pointed to more intense northern lights occurring in the next several decades, due to increased solar activity. In its 11-year cycle, the sun transitions between low

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