Astronomy Picture Of The Day Explore the cosmos Every day, a new image or photograph of the universe is presented. A brief explanation by an astronomer is included. 2021 October 30
A Rorschach Aurora
Image Credit & Copyright: Gran Strand
Explanation: Don't panic if you think this is a monster's face. This is called pareidolia. It is a condition that causes the inability to see faces in patterns or light and shadow. The stunning visual scene actually shows a panoramic 180-degree view of the Northern Lights digitally mirroring like inkblots on paper. It was constructed from frames taken on September nights at a suspension bridge that crosses a waterfall in Jamtland (Sweden). Recent solar activity could trigger geomagnetic storms that will make auroral displays very active at high latitudes on Earth. It could be Halloween if you spot a scary face in your neighborhood tomorrow night.
