Ukrainian polar explorers for the first time recorded a rare southern aurora near the Academician Vernadsky station.
Ukrainian polar explorers at the Academician Vernadsky station observed and recorded the rare southern aurora for the first time in many years.
The National Antarctic Science Center explained that such a phenomenon is extremely rare due to the station’s great distance from the Earth’s south magnetic pole. In addition, the weather conditions are generally unfavorable for the visibility of the aurora, as cloudy weather prevails in the station area. However, this time the frosty weather with clear skies lasted for several weeks, which contributed to the sighting.
Geophysicist Yuri Otruba, who works at the station, noted that for the first time in all his eight winters he observed and recorded this phenomenon in a photo. He explained that in order to see the aurora near Vernadsky, there must be a strong disturbance in the Earth’s magnetic field, which was recorded using instruments at a geomagnetic observatory.
Scientists recorded a magnetic storm of level K-8 according to the Bartels index, which is a very high level. As geophysicist Anna Soina said, at first glance the glow seemed to be a white haze with a pink tint, but green and purple appeared in the photographs. The photos were taken on the night of August 12, when the northern lights were also observed in some regions of Ukraine.
Earlier it was reported that the Ukrainian Antarctic station Academician Vernadsky was visited again by the emperor penguin.
Source: korrespondent
I am Ben Stock, a passionate and experienced digital journalist working in the news industry. At the Buna Times, I write articles covering technology developments and related topics. I strive to provide reliable information that my readers can trust. My research skills are top-notch, as well as my ability to craft engaging stories on timely topics with clarity and accuracy.