Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31376: Lightning from Above: Studying Atmospheric Discharges with Chibis-M

We’re all familiar with thunderstorms and lightning—but what do these spectacular phenomena look like from space? The 'Chibis-M' experiment, led by Lev Zelyony from Russia’s Space Research Institute, sets out to explore this question by observing atmospheric lightning discharges from orbit. Using the Chibis-M microsatellite launched aboard a Progress cargo vehicle, this experiment studies the physical processes underlying lightning events on Earth from the unique vantage point of the International Space Station (ISS).

Chibis-M focuses specifically on a type of high-altitude lightning called Transient Luminous Events (TLEs), which include sprites, blue jets, and elves. These events occur above thunderstorms and are difficult to observe from the ground due to atmospheric interference. From space, however, researchers can get a clear view.

Using onboard sensors, Chibis-M measures the electromagnetic radiation and particle emissions associated with lightning. This data helps scientists understand how energy and particles move between the Earth's surface and the ionosphere. Understanding these interactions is essential not just for atmospheric science but also for improving satellite communications, navigation systems, and climate models.

The experiment is notable for combining data from both a microsatellite and the ISS, allowing for cross-verification of observations. It provides unprecedented insights into the dynamics of storms and how they affect the Earth's upper atmosphere.

By studying lightning from above, Chibis-M reveals a world of atmospheric electricity that’s largely invisible from the ground. This knowledge could help improve weather prediction models and prepare better responses to severe weather events.

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