Thunderstorms Emit Complex Gamma-Ray Emissions

Recent studies published in Nature have revealed that gamma-ray emissions during thunderstorms are far more complex, dynamic, and common than previously thought. A new phenomenon called Flickering Gamma-Ray Flashes (FGFs) was identified, potentially serving as the missing link between Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes (TGFs) and gamma-ray glows. Researchers used a retrofitted U-2 spy plane to observe these emissions, which occur over vast areas and last for extended periods. The findings suggest that thunderstorms act as natural particle accelerators, producing high-energy gamma rays through mechanisms involving relativistic electron speeds. These discoveries could reshape our understanding of thunderstorm dynamics and their broader impacts on Earth's atmosphere and beyond.