Phenomena exhibiting intense luminosity observed in the upper atmosphere, often associated with energetic events, represent a specific area of study within atmospheric physics and astronomy. Such occurrences are typically transient and localized, characterized by rapid changes in intensity and spectral composition. A notable instance includes atmospheric electrical discharges extending upwards from thunderstorms.
The significance of these luminous events lies in their potential impact on atmospheric chemistry and the Earth’s electric field. Understanding the mechanisms behind their generation and propagation contributes to a broader comprehension of upper atmospheric dynamics and space weather. Historically, observations of these phenomena were infrequent and often anecdotal, but advancements in observational technology have facilitated more systematic study and data collection.