new discovery; Earth lightning is a threat to satellites and astronauts

In a surprising discovery, scientists have found that lightning strikes on Earth can eject high-energy electrons from Earth’s radiation belt and launch them into space. These energetic electrons, sometimes called “killer electrons”, pose a serious threat to satellites and astronauts.

According to Tekna Technology Media Astronomy News Service, the Earth is surrounded by a radiation belt that traps energetic particles such as electrons and protons that come from the sun and space. This belt acts like a protective shield and prevents these particles from entering the atmosphere and harming living organisms.

However, new research suggests that terrestrial lightning strikes can upset this balance. The powerful radio waves produced during lightning strike the energetic electrons in the radiation belt and throw them into space at a very high speed. These released electrons can cause serious damage to satellites. They can penetrate electronic circuits and disrupt the functioning of satellites. Also, these electrons are dangerous for astronauts and can cause serious diseases like cancer.

Scientists discovered this phenomenon by accident while examining data from an old satellite. They noticed that in some cases, a large number of energetic electrons were ejected from the radiation belt, and this was always accompanied by intense lightning. This discovery shows that terrestrial activities such as lightning can have a significant impact on the space environment around Earth. Also, this discovery helps scientists to better predict space phenomena and protect satellites and astronauts from possible dangers.