Dazzling images of the northern lights captured on smartphones are turning heads, and there’s a reason why they look even more stunning on your screen than in person. Thanks to significant improvements in smartphone cameras in recent years, these devices now use computational photography and AI to produce images that can exceed what the human eye can perceive.
During the geomagnetic storms of May 2024, many observers marveled at how their smartphones enhanced the vividness of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, showcasing their true beauty. Auroras, whether in the north (aurora borealis) or south (aurora australis), occur when the solar wind interacts with Earth’s magnetic field, creating colorful streaks across the sky.
The human eye is a marvel of biology, allowing us to see in incredible detail under various conditions. However, in low-light situations, our vision relies heavily on rods, the cells in our eyes that are sensitive to light, while cones, responsible for color vision, need more light to function effectively. This trade-off means that in dim light, the vibrant colors of the auroras often go unnoticed by the naked eye.
Smartphones, with their advanced cameras, are designed to excel in capturing images even in challenging lighting conditions. These devices gather more light than the human eye can through techniques such as longer exposure times, larger apertures, and increased ISO settings. But it is not just about adjusting these parameters – smartphones also leverage computational photography to enhance images using digital algorithms. Image stabilization, exposure optimization, and multi-image processing techniques all work together to create stunning photos of the northern lights.
While traditional cameras offer more control and larger sensors for photographers, smartphone cameras provide the convenience of AI-assisted features that automatically adjust settings for optimal results. Whether it’s high dynamic range, night mode, or portrait mode, these AI algorithms enhance details, reduce blur, and apply color correction to produce exceptional images, especially in low-light environments.
By combining the power of AI and computational photography, modern smartphones have become indispensable tools for capturing the beauty of the northern lights and other natural wonders. The next time you witness the aurora borealis dance across the night sky, remember that your smartphone can help you capture the magic in ways that even the sharpest eye might miss.
