The Northern Lights will be visible in the Nizhny Novgorod region on the night of September 16.

      15 September 2025, 14:07

      [165]

      Society

      On the night of September 16, residents of the Nizhny Novgorod region, in good weather, will be able to observe a natural phenomenon rare for our latitudes — the northern lights. Astrophysicist, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences Nikolai Chugai told the TV channel "360" that the cause of this phenomenon will be the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth's magnetic field.

      The northern lights arise from the glow of oxygen and nitrogen molecules in the upper layers of the atmosphere. These molecules begin to glow when charged particles of the solar wind enter the Earth's atmosphere and collide with air molecules. The glow occurs at altitudes from 150 to 300 kilometers in the ionosphere. At the same time, particles of the solar wind are accelerated under the influence of the planet's magnetic field, which amplifies the effect.

      Nikolai Chugai emphasized that seeing the northern lights outside polar latitudes is a rather rare occurrence, but sometimes it does happen. He recalled how he himself observed the aurora in his youth while in the city of Shakhty in the Rostov region. The scientist noted that the lights even reach Rostov, although not as often.

      Chugai clarified that there is no need to be afraid of the northern lights. It is not a dangerous phenomenon, but rather a beautiful and mesmerizing spectacle that can be seen in the night sky. He urged people to go outside and admire this rare natural phenomenon. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay informed about major events, exclusive materials and timely updates. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When republishing, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required. This resource may contain 18+ material.