Rare red sprites captured above Tibet

Key facts

• Rare red sprites were captured above Tibet.
• Sprites are giant flashes that appear high above thunderstorm clouds.
• These phenomena form in the upper atmosphere during powerful thunderstorms.

Red sprites are a type of transient luminous event (TLE) that occur high above thunderstorms. They are difficult to observe and photograph, making sightings rare and noteworthy. Their formation is linked to intense electrical activity within the storm, specifically positive cloud-to-ground lightning discharges.