Scientists working at UCLA have discovered a new superfast electron shower raining down on Earth. It is stated that the discovered electron rain is a significant threat to spacecraft, satellites and astronauts.
Data from UCLA’s ELFIN satellites and NASA’s THEMIS spacecraft were recently reviewed. The researchers announced that they observed unexpected electron precipitation in Earth orbit using ELFIN satellites.
Electron rain could impact planned space exploration
Findings from mini-satellites that are part of the ELFIN mission are published in the journal Nature Communications. Scientists looked at data from the THEMIS spacecraft after the electron shower was discovered. Scientists examining the effects of electrons determined that Whistler Waves were behind the electron precipitation.
Electrons move in the region called the Van Allen radiation belt, located between the Earth’s north and south poles. These belts are characterized as an important part of the events that take place in the near-Earth space environment. However, electrons become more energetic and accelerate when Whistler Waves are generated within the radiation belts.
Scientists state that Whistler Waves can have a major impact on Earth’s atmospheric chemistry. Risks previously unaccounted for could occur if a spacecraft or satellite were to pass through the low-Earth region.
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