The Sound of the Aurora

Herein lie the first Damn Interesting words of our most recent writer, Richard Solensky.

Aurora over Bear Lake, AlaskaIf you happen to be reasonably close to one of the Earth's magnetic poles, the next time there’s a particularly intense aurora, go outside. Get as far as you can from sources of noise – traffic, barking dogs, TVs – and listen. Listen carefully.

If conditions are right, you may hear some unusual noises. Earwitnesses have said the sound is like radio static, a small animal rustling through dry grass and leaves, or the crinkling of a cellophane wrapper. Inuit folklore says it's the sound of the spirits of the dead, either playing a game or trying to communicate with the living.

It’s the sound of the aurora itself। And the cause is currently unknown. Understanding the phenomenon is made more difficult by the fact that though there are many anecdotal reports, the sound has yet to be recorded.

Written by Richard Solensky