Lightning is one of the most important natural phenomena that takes place in Earth’s atmosphere. In general, lightning is the result of electric discharge buildup in the clouds, and its colour is the result of the ionization of nitrogen and oxygen in the air. Some other rare forms of lightning are fundamentally the same, but their appearance and location are a bit different. One such kind is red sprite lightning, which occurs in the mesosphere. So, let’s learn more about these sprites, what makes them unique, and how their study is essential for our understanding of nature.
Red Sprite Lightning
A red sprite is a rapid flash of lightning generated by thunderstorms and a cloud. They are different from regular lightning because they occur much higher than clouds (mainly over the cloud). Moreover, these last for 300ms, so if you want to photograph or capture their beauty, you need to be precise with your location and time. Also, sprites are pretty different in their visuals and appearance (colours and patterns).
- Occurs in the mesosphere.
- Lasts for 300ms.
- Intrigue and beautiful patterns.
The Formation Of Sprite Red Lightning
Sprite red lightning forms high in the atmosphere due to powerful positive cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, creating brief, red-coloured electrical discharges. They mainly occur in the mesosphere, which is around 70-80 km from Earth’s surface. Thus, sprites are the resultant of the upper atmosphere activity, where electrical discharges play a pivotal role.
- Red coloured.
- 70-80 km above the Earth’s surface.
- Rapid in visibility.
Types of Sprite Lightning
Many different sprites are classified based on broad parameters like occurrence, frequency, and visible appearance. This is helpful in understanding the science behind the sprite lightning occurrence around the globe.
Below are some significant types of sprites:
- Red Sprites – The most common type.
- Blue Jets – Rare, high-energy bursts.
- Elves – Expanding rings of light.
- Gigantic Jets – The most potent upward lightning.
More About Research On Red Lightning Sprites
The continuous research conducted around sprites by significant space agencies is opening doors to our understanding of the weather. Sprites and other forms of lightning have a substantial impact on life and weather systems. Thus, it can help scientists predict weather forecasts and other significant events taking place in the atmosphere.
Capturing The Beauty Of Red Sprites
If you want to photograph sprites, you need to be at the right place at the right time. Also, you have to carry the best equipment for the job. At the same time, maintaining a safe distance is also crucial for safety purposes.
- Locations with the most sprite activity.
- Adequate conditions for observing sprites.
- Using high-end equipment
Final Thoughts On Sprite Lightning
Red sprite lightning is a rare but beautiful phenomenon that occurs in the mesosphere, much higher than clouds. It forms due to powerful positive cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, creating brief, red-coloured electrical discharges. Significant types of sprites include red sprites, blue jets, elves, and giant jets.
Research on sprites by major space agencies helps scientists predict weather forecasts and other significant events in the atmosphere. Capturing sprites requires precise location, time, and equipment.
FAQs
What is sprite lightning?
It is a form of electric discharge that takes place in the Earth’s mesosphere.
How do you photograph lightning sprites?
You can photograph using a high-end camera and long shutter speed (15-25 seconds).
What is a sprite in lightning?
Sprites are electrical discharges that form a variety of patterns above a thunderstorm. Their name is derived from the folklore of fairies.
Is sprite lightning rare?
Sprites are a natural phenomenon but are rare to view from human eyes.
What is the rarest lightning?
Ball lightning is one of the rarest forms of lightning in nature.