How do Aurora forms?

Auroras form when charged particles from the solar wind collide with atoms and molecules in Earth's atmosphere, mainly oxygen and nitrogen. These collisions excite the atoms, causing them to release energy in the form of light, which creates the stunning displays we see as the auroras. The phenomenon typically occurs near the polar regions, where the Earth's magnetic field directs these particles toward the atmosphere. Variations in color depend on the type of gas involved and the altitude of the interactions.