Preparing to Launch a Balloon into Alaska's Aurora
Researchers prepare to launch an instrument-laden weather balloon toward Alaska's aurora on April 12, 2012 (at right is a radar facility).
Weather Balloon Rising into Alaska's Aurora
An instrument-laden weather balloon rises toward the northern lights atop Alaska's Murphy Dome mountain in the early morning hours of April 12, 2012.
Alaska's Northern Lights Above a Radar Dome
The northern lights dance above a radar facility at top of Murphy Dome mountain on April 12, 2012.
Alaska's Aurora Blazes Above the Snow
The northern lights flicker above Alaska's Murphy Dome mountain on April 12, 2012.
Sled Dogs at the Ready
A team of sled dogs waits impatiently for the chance to go tearing off into the Alaskan backcountry on April 11, 2012.
Sled Dogs Take Off
A sled pulls out into a snowy plain about 40 minutes outside of Fairbanks, Alaska, on April 11, 2012.
Ol' Blue Eyes
Dogs relaxing after their run on April 11, 2012.
Sled Dog Under a Car
An Alaska sled dog taking shelter under a truck after finishing a run on April 11, 2012. The day was unseasonably warm, with highs around 50 degrees Fahrenheit; the dogs are used to running at much colder temperatures.
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