Red sprites are spectacular, large-scale electrical discharges that occur high above thunderstorms, extending tens of kilometers in both vertical and horizontal directions.
These transient luminous events are notably vast, with their dimensions varying across different parts of their structure.
Dimensions of Red Sprites
Red sprites possess impressive vertical and horizontal extents, making them one of the largest atmospheric electrical phenomena. Their size can be broken down into the following typical ranges:
- Vertical Extent: Red sprites typically extend vertically from an altitude of about 30-40 kilometers up to approximately 70-90 kilometers above the Earth's surface.
- Primary Body Altitude: The most prominent part, often referred to as the "primary body" of a sprite, is usually observed at altitudes around 50-60 kilometers.
- Horizontal Extent: Horizontally, a single red sprite can span a significant distance, generally ranging from about 25 to 50 kilometers.
- Bright Core: Within this broader horizontal expanse, sprites often feature a concentrated, brighter central region, or "core," which is typically less than 10 kilometers wide.
The table below summarizes the typical dimensions of a red sprite:
| Dimension | Typical Size / Altitude Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Extent | 30-90 km altitude | Total height from lower tendrils to upper halo. |
| Primary Body | 50-60 km altitude | The main, often brightest, portion of the sprite. |
| Horizontal Extent | 25-50 km | The overall width of the sprite's structure. |
| Bright Core | <10 km wide | A compact, intensely bright area within the sprite. |
It's also worth noting that the main upper parts of these sprites are characteristically red, while their lower tendrils gradually shift from red to a bluish hue as they descend to lower altitudes.
