sky-glow tagged posts

Scientists discover what powers celestial phenomenon STEVE

Amateur astronomer’s photograph used in the new research. The photograph was taken on May 8, 2016, in Keller, Wash. The major structures are two bands of upper atmospheric emissions 160 kilometers (100 miles) above the ground, a mauve arc and green picket fence. The black objects at the bottom are trees. The background star constellations include Gemini and Ursa Major.
Credit: Rocky Raybell

The recently-discovered atmospheric glow is both like typical auroras and distinct from them. The celestial phenomenon known as STEVE is likely caused by a combination of heating of charged particles in the atmosphere and energetic electrons like those that power the aurora, according to new research...

Read More