CANCELED due to extremely cold weather

Presentation by Randy Hemann

When the Sky Glows: How the Northern Lights Work

Auroras have inspired myths and scientific inquiry across various cultures and throughout history. In this talk, we will explore the interactions between solar activity, Earth’s magnetic field, atmospheric chemistry, and human perception that create these stunning light displays. The colors and visibility of auroras depend on altitude, atmospheric composition, and the tools used by observers. Modern technology enables us to predict, study, and observe auroras in greater detail, benefiting both scientific understanding and our personal enjoyment.

Dr. Randy Hemann is president of the Rochester Astronomy Club and NASA Solar System Ambassador. Randy is a retired physician and former chief medical officer from Rochester, Minnesota. His interest in astronomy was planted at age 10 in his backyard on a cold winter night when his 3-inch reflector telescope “discovered” Saturn as this new “star” entering the constellation of Orion. That indelible impression never left him. Later in life, after extensive education in medicine and establishing his career, he purchased a 6-inch reflector telescope from a friend — and then it began. He joined a local amateur astronomy club and has performed as its president for the last 25 years. He enjoys producing daytime and nighttime astronomical outreach events for local schools, scouts, libraries, and regional state parks. Now retired, he and his wife Lynne travel the country in his motorhome, always toting several telescopes for impromptu campsite night observing sessions with others. He often pulls a trailer that houses his 18- and 30-inch Dobsonian telescopes for more extensive observing opportunities.

Public Sky Observing of the young Moon – 8.0 days after New Moon, planets Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune bright stars, double stars, and more by telescope with guidance members of the Rochester Astronomy Club.

What to expect at Public Sky Observing – click here.

Reload this page before you leave for the event. Event can be cancelled in case of cloudy weather or another reason.

Moon on Friday January 23 evening


Credit: NASA Scientific Visualization Studio

Resources: In the Sky January/2026, Phases of the Moon 2026, Planets rise and set 01/23, Sun and Moon 01/23, Sun today, Holidays 2026
Moon Features You Can See From Earth,
Messier list, Caldwell list, Double stars list, Carbon stars list

Calendar 2026 in development

☿ – Mercury, ♀ – Venus, ♂ – Mars, ♃ – Jupiter, ♄ – Saturn, ⛢ – Uranus, ♆ – Neptune

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