레드 스프라이트(Red Sprite) 번개

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1/3 초 동안만 나타나 육안으로는 잘 안보여

A fleeting flash above the storm: What is a lightning sprite?

They look like electric jellyfish and were only recently discovered. If you're in the right place at the right time, you may be able to see a lightning 'sprite.'



What is a lightning sprite?

The phenomenon is called a "sprite" and is a large discharge of electricity high in the atmosphere, miles above a severe thunderstorm, that can extend almost to the edge of space, which is considered to be around 62 miles (100 km) above the Earth's surface. Sprites are triggered by lightning in a storm.

Where can I see sprites?

Sprites have been observed above every continent except Antarctica, but occur most frequently in the central United States, over severe thunderstorms in Tornado Alley. They have even been documented over powerful tropical systems, such as Hurricane Matthew in 2016, CNET said.

How to photograph a sprite

Careful planning and a bit of luck are needed for any hopes of capturing the elusive lightning bolt on camera.

People hoping to photograph the phenomenon for themselves will need to wait for a night when a strong thunderstorm is off in the distance, and visibility is good.