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"Gigantic Jets" Blast Electricity Into the Ionosphere

Posted by kdawson on from the more-things-in-heaven-and-earth dept.

New Scientist has an update on the so-called "gigantic jets" first discovered in 2003 — these are lightning bolts that reach from cloud tops upward into the ionosphere, as high as 90 kilometers. (There's a video at the link.) What's new is that researchers from Duke University have managed to measure the electrical discharge from a gigantic jet and confirm that they carry as much energy skyward as ordinary lightning strikes carry to the ground. According to the article, "Gigantic jets are one of a host of new atmospheric phenomena discovered in recent years. Other examples are sprites and blue jets."

5 of 168 comments (clear)

  1. We should take action against Boeing. by cpicon92 · · Score: 2, Funny

    Not only does their production get delayed all the time but it turns out they have environmental impact!

    1. Re:We should take action against Boeing. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1, Funny

      Having that dream you walk into the wrong class naked?

      No, it was a dream where I see myself standing in sort of Sun God robes, on a pyramid, with a thousand naked women screaming and throwing little pickles at me.

  2. So? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Don't stand high above Cumulonimbus clouds. Important safety information. Thank you.

  3. Re:Twice by jeffb+(2.718) · · Score: 5, Funny

    only if it accidentally the whole thing.

  4. Re:The "video at the link" by maxume · · Score: 2, Funny

    Worry not, I am hard at work on an animation that will be even more disappointing.

    --
    Nerd rage is the funniest rage.