Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31022: Eyes in Orbit: Mapping Thunderstorms from the ISS

As part of Expedition 70, scientists revisited the thrilling task of capturing lightning and other atmospheric light shows from space. The continued work of Dr. Yoav Yair and Axiom Space in this recurring investigation proves how dynamic and data-rich our planet's upper atmosphere is.

The ability to record and analyze optical signatures of TLEs from orbit provides key information that can’t be observed clearly from ground-based stations. From the ISS, researchers can record the timing, brightness, and morphology of these phenomena. They then correlate this with weather data and atmospheric models to understand what triggers them.

Each mission iteration, including Expedition 70, improves upon the last by using better optics, refined targeting algorithms, and enhanced data processing. This progression turns images into actionable insights about our planet’s electrical energy systems.

For young learners, this shows science in motion—how experiments evolve, how curiosity grows into technology, and how data from orbit helps us decode natural wonders. Whether you dream of becoming a meteorologist, physicist, or astronaut, the journey often starts with questions like: "What is lightning?" and grows into space-bound investigations.

The skies are not the limit—they’re just the beginning.

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