**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
– Gel food coloring (blue, green, purple, and yellow for the aurora effect)
– Edible glitter or luster dust (optional, for a magical glow)
– Flavoring extract (optional: mint, vanilla, or fruit)
– Candy thermometer
– Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Your Workspace:**
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If using edible glitter or luster dust, sprinkle a light layer over the sheet for extra sparkle.

2. **Combine Ingredients:**
– In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Stir gently to combine.

3. **Cook the Sugar Mixture:**
– Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring once the sugar dissolves to avoid crystallization.
– Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and let the mixture boil until it reaches **300°F (hard crack stage).**

4. **Add Flavor and Color:**
– Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove the pan from the heat immediately.
– Add a few drops of your chosen flavoring extract (optional) and gently stir.
– Divide the mixture into separate bowls (one for each color) and add gel food coloring to each bowl. Mix quickly but carefully, as the candy will start to harden.

5. **Create the Aurora Effect:**
– Pour the colored candy onto the prepared baking sheet in overlapping swirls and streaks to mimic the Northern Lights. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors together for a marbled, glowing effect.

6. **Set and Break:**
– Allow the candy to cool and harden completely (about 30 minutes). Once set, break it into irregular pieces to create “candy shards” resembling the shimmering lights of the aurora.

7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Store the candy in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Display it on a tray with fairy lights for a dazzling presentation!

**Pro Tip:**
– For a true “glow” effect, serve the candy under UV or black light using edible glow powders (like quinine-based or glow-in-the-dark food-safe dust).
– Add edible gold flakes for an extra celestial touch!

This candy is as beautiful as it is delicious—perfect for themed parties or magical celebrations!