Science: Fury on The Sun

Once worshiped as a god, earth's star is revealing the secrets of its awesome power

Strolling outside Arizona's Kitt Peak National Observatory during a work break, staff observer Paul Avellar at first thought the angry red glow in the night sky was caused by forest fires. Then, seeing a greenish fringe and vertical streamers stretching like ribbons above the horizon, he realized what was happening. He raced to a telephone and called his wife and friends, awakening them and insisting they share the view. "A chance like this doesn't come along very often," says Avellar. "To see the northern lights is very humbling and awe-inspiring. You realize the sun is just going about its business and...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!