EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
McHarg et al. 2002
McHarg, M.G., Haaland, R.K., Moudry, D. and Stenbaek-Nielsen, H.C. (2002). Altitude-time development of sprites. Journal of Geophysical Research 107: doi: 10.1029/2001JA000283. issn: 0148-0227.

Data from sprites using a 16-channel, multi-anode photometer (MAP) have been recorded at 0.1 ms resolution. The majority of the sprites have onsets at an altitude of 70--75 km and subsequently propagate both upward and downward from this initial altitude. The statistical lifetime of the emissions measured by the blue-sensitive MAP is approximately 1.3 ms. The velocities of propagation are between 107 and 108m s-1, with larger velocities being measured at higher altitudes. The larger propagation velocities of the upward and downward sprite luminosity channels are consistent with the characteristics of highly over-voltage streamers in the mesosphere.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Atmospheric Composition and Structure, Middle atmosphere--energy deposition, Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics, Lightning, Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics, Radiative processes, Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics, Remote sensing, Meteorology and Atmospheric Dynamics, Instruments and techniques
Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit