NASA satellites initially built to detect high-energy particles from space were surprised to find high-energy gamma radiation bursts coming from thunderstorms on Earth. After years of uncertainty, a team of scientists used a retrofitted U2 spy plane to study these phenomena and discovered that gamma radiation in thunderstorms is much more common than previously thought. The research revealed various forms of gamma radiation, some associated with lightning and others spontaneous in nature. Despite the intensity of the radiation, the study showed that the risk to individuals is minimal unless in close proximity to the source. Overall, the study sheds light on the fascinating and complex dynamics of thunderstorms.
https://phys.org/news/2024-10-amount-variety-gamma-large-tropical.html