If you've ever looked into the night sky and seen bright green lights overhead falling in a curtain or swirling about, you've probably seen an aurora.

Though they only happen near the North and South Poles, these light shows produce great images from both Earth and space.

...But how do they work?

PBS Digital Studios has answered that question through it's recent series, "It's Okay to be Smart." Joe Hanson, a biologist and blogger takes you on a wild and educational ride through space as he discusses the action behind some of the world's most beautiful sites.

To watch the video and see Hanson's other work, watch the video below. Also, don't forget to follow him on Twitter.

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