Geomagnetic storms stirred up by heightened solar activity came under the sensor eyes of a network of Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) spacecraft. In this composite image, infrared data combined with a specialized nighttime visual sensor created this unique look at the aurora borealis seen from the Dakotas through Maine on October 29.
Also tagged the northern lights, these natural fireworks are caused when solar particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, creating light particles called aurora. The curtains of light moved toward the equator, giving people in the continental United States and Europe a stunning view.
-- Leonard David
