However, some electrons in the solar wind become trapped in the Earth's magnetic field and accelerate toward the polar regions and downward into the upper atmosphere above the geomagnetic poles. However, when the magnetosphere is highly disturbed by geomagnetic storms, the auroral oval may extend much further from the pole. Thus, during high periods of solar activity, the outer limits of the oval may push as far equatorward as 35 o to 40 o . The process is similar to that which lights a neon lamp. Nitrogen molecules in an ionized state will produce blue light while neutral nitrogen molecules create purplish-red colours when excited.
Auroras come in many shapes and sizes as well as a variety of colours.
They may appear to hang static over the sky, they may dance and flutter or explode upward, or they may change colours or pulse in intensity, as the ever-changing magnetic field is disturbed by the storm. The aurora has inspired many myths, legends and superstitions, particularly for the peoples inhabiting the polar latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. Their infrequent appearance at lower latitudes was generally taken as a harbinger of disaster or great dangers such as an oncoming war, death, or famine. However, in some cultures, the aurora was seen as a sign of an impending royal birth. Some mythologists believe that auroras kindled dragon legends in China and Europe when the people say blazing red auroras and believed them the beast's fiery breath.