Visitors to the north are sometimes treated to the inspiring sight of northern lights. The aurora borealis is caused by solar dust particles that are magnetically attracted to the earth's polar regions. This phenomenon creates stunning visual displays of pale green, pink and blue light that shimmer and dance in the night sky, appearing like undulating streamers and rippling curtains of color. Myths and legends about the aurora endure in northern communities that lie beneath this celestial light show.

"This swirling 'cinnamon bun in the sky' was one of the most unusual shows of aurora I've seen. The glow was intensified because of the reflection in the river, and it created the feeling of being surrounded. Most people think the best auroral displays occur in winter when it's cold and snowy, but often very beautiful shows occur in late summer like this one."

'Swirling aurora' is an award-winning image, earning a highly honoured distinction in the 2003 Nature's Best International Photography Awards.