NASA | Fermi Finds Radio Bursts from Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes

The video explores the phenomenon of terrestrial gamma ray flashes (TGFs) associated with lightning. Most lightning remains in clouds, but TGFs are linked to high-energy radiation. NASA's Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope has advanced our understanding of TGFs, revealing that they are caused by high-speed electrons and produce gamma rays and radio signals. Fermi's data shows that TGFs emit strong radio signals, previously thought to be from lightning. This discovery helps track electrical activity globally and clarifies weather patterns linked to TGFs.

What is the primary focus of NASA's Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope?

• Tracking meteor showers

• Observing terrestrial gamma ray flashes

• Monitoring solar flares

• Studying the surface of the moon

How do high-speed electrons contribute to the formation of TGFs?

• They collide with each other to form gamma rays

• They are deflected by air molecules, emitting gamma rays

• They slow down and release energy as gamma rays

• They combine with protons to create gamma rays

What advancement has improved the detection of TGFs by the Fermi GBM?

• Better weather prediction models

• Enhanced satellite imaging

• Improved data processing techniques

• Increased satellite altitude

What was the previous assumption about the source of radio signals associated with TGFs?

• They were caused by solar radiation

• They were produced by the gamma rays themselves

• They were generated by the Earth's magnetic field

• They were emitted by the lightning stroke that triggered the TGF

How do scientists use radio signals to track electrical activity globally?

• By using the World Wide Lightning Location Network

• By analyzing the frequency of lightning strikes

• By observing changes in Earth's magnetic field

• By measuring the intensity of gamma rays