The Digital Press

NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers captured a rare and spectacular gigantic jet, a powerful electrical discharge extending from a thunderstorm into the upper atmosphere, from the International Space Station. This rare observation helps scientists better understand Transient Luminous Events (TLEs) and electrical activity above thunderstorms.

Why it matters: Gigantic jets create an electrical bridge between clouds and the upper atmosphere, influencing atmospheric electrical dynamics.

The big picture: TLEs like sprites and gigantic jets reveal complex, high-altitude electrical phenomena previously mostly observed by chance.

The other side: Unlike common sprites, gigantic jets are rarer and less understood, with ongoing research needed to quantify their electrical impact.

Commenters say: They admire the stunning photo, discuss past pilot sightings, and note the scientific importance of documenting these elusive atmospheric events.