Aurora over Concordia

This timelapse video was taken from Concordia research station in the Antarctic.

Aurora Australis -- the Southern Lights -- occur over both the South polar regions, but are often difficult to see from populated areas. During periods of increased solar activity, the lights sometimes extend to populated latitudes.

The laser beams are used as an experimental way of communication.

During the winter, Concordia is under almost total darkness, with an average temperature of --51°C and a record low of --85°C. It is an ideal place to study the effects on small, multicultural teams isolated for long periods in an extreme, hostile environment.