Sprites, Elves, and Blue jets.

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In summary, Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets are all types of transient luminous events (TLEs) that occur in the upper atmosphere. They are created by intense lightning activity within thunderstorms and can be seen with the naked eye under the right conditions. These TLEs are not considered dangerous to humans, but they are indicators of intense lightning activity that can be dangerous. The main differences between them are their physical appearance and location in the atmosphere. Sprites appear as red or orange flashes above thunderstorms, while Elves appear as a faint red glow in the upper atmosphere, and Blue Jets are blue or blue-green jets that shoot upwards from the top of a thunderstorm cloud. They are brief events and can be difficult to spot
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i8pieyay
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Does anyone know much about them they're fascinating.
 
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i8pieyay said:
Does anyone know much about them they're fascinating.
There are some old threads where we have discussed these.

Here is some information.

http://elf.gi.alaska.edu/

Also, thanks to Ivan for this link

http://thunder.nsstc.nasa.gov/bookshelf/pubs/sprites.html
 
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1. What are Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets?

Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets are all types of transient luminous events (TLEs) that occur in the upper atmosphere. They are large-scale electrical discharges that are associated with thunderstorms and occur at altitudes of 50-90 km above the Earth's surface.

2. How do Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets form?

Sprites are formed by strong positive cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, while Elves and Blue Jets are formed by intense lightning activity within the thunderstorm itself. These electrical discharges create a breakdown of the air molecules, resulting in the glowing plasma seen in TLEs.

3. What is the difference between Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets?

The main difference between these three TLEs is their physical appearance and location in the atmosphere. Sprites appear as red or orange flashes above thunderstorms, Elves appear as a faint red glow in the upper atmosphere, and Blue Jets are blue or blue-green jets that shoot upwards from the top of a thunderstorm cloud.

4. Are Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets dangerous?

No, Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets are not considered dangerous to humans. They occur at high altitudes and are not directly connected to the ground. However, they are indicators of intense lightning activity, which can be dangerous to those on the ground.

5. Can Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets be seen with the naked eye?

Yes, under the right conditions, Sprites, Elves, and Blue Jets can be seen with the naked eye. They are usually only visible at night and from a distance of several hundred kilometers away from the thunderstorm. However, they are very brief events and can be difficult to spot.

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