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Cosmic Rays May Ignite Earth's Lightning Sparks

3/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study from Los Alamos National Laboratory reveals that cosmic rays could be the hidden spark behind lightning on Earth. Researchers discovered that the initial lightning spark doesn't match the cloud's electric field, hinting at a fascinating link with positrons from cosmic ray showers. This intriguing connection opens the door for further exploration, especially regarding its ties to solar activity.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study from Los Alamos National Laboratory reveals that cosmic rays could be the hidden spark behind lightning on Earth. Researchers discovered that the initial lightning spark doesn't match the cloud's electric field, hinting at a fascinating link with positrons from cosmic ray showers. This intriguing connection opens the door for further exploration, especially regarding its ties to solar activity.