The Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights is certainly a breathtaking sky event to see. This week, viewers from Iceland prepared for this spectacular event by turning off their lights.

On Wednesday night, Iceland's capital Reykjavik went dark as locals turned off their light to see this dazzling aurora. The blackout was ordered by city officials so residents can get a better view of the skies.

According to astronomy educator Saever Helgi Bragason, switching off street lights in the city was a good gesture by the city council. Bragason voiced hope that it will be done often

The Reykjavik city council encouraged residents to switch off the lights in their homes for a maximum viewing experience of the northern lights. The blackout was only required for an hour. However, the Aurora did not appear on time, so city officials extended the blackout period to midnight.

What exactly happens in the skies during an Aurora Borealis? When the sun emits solar winds, charged particles stream from space and crash into the planet's magnetosphere and interact with the Earth's atmosphere. From the surface, this unique event appears as shimmering, jewel-toned lights in vibrant emerald greens, pink, and amethyst hues.

However, it has been challenging to view these lights as light pollution from street lights and billboards can become too bright.