The solar wind is a stream of charged particles — mainly electrons and protons — released from the sun’s outer atmosphere (the corona). At extremely high temperatures, gas particles break apart into plasma (a gas of free electrons and nuclei). This plasma escapes the sun’s magnetic field and travels through space in a spiral pattern, sometimes called the “garden-hose effect.”

Earth’s magnetic field directs most of the charged particles toward the polar areas. When these particles collide with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere, they release energy in the form of light — creating the beautiful colors of the aurora.

The sun follows an 11-year solar cycle, and 2025–2026 marks a peak period known as “solar maximum.” During this time, increased solar activity leads to stronger and more frequent aurora displays — making it an excellent time to visit Yukon for Northern Lights viewing.