At the Edge of Space

Each day, eight million bolts of lightning strike planet Earth. Decades ago, pilots noticed a strange phenomenon: during powerful thunderstorms, "super-bolts" unleashed fleeting flashes of lightning that were seen to burst upwards in the atmosphere, reaching the edge of outer space. Because of their transient nature, these strikes were dubbed "sprites." This PBS-aired NOVA documentary looks at the search for sprites in order to discover what they can tell us about the thin protective layer that guards life on our planet. Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon was tasked with the job of recording these elusive sprites while on a 2003 space shuttle mission; tragically, however, Ramon and the other astronauts on the flight were killed when Columbia disintegrated upon re-entry. Colleague Yoav Yair is determined to perform a "survivor's duty," continuing Ramon's work. Sprites, which can resemble jellyfish, spreading trees, or even fairy wings, are seen in intense tropical storms, often over Africa, but can be widely distributed, with some reaching over 40 miles in height. Scientists here try to trace the sprite's anatomy, flying jets in and around dangerous thunderclouds while employing sensitive, low light cameras. Ironically, we see Denver, CO, enjoy a July 4th fireworks display while a parallel light show is exploding many miles above. Also covering other celestial phenomena such as "air-glow," auroras, and solar winds, this thought-provoking and awe-inspiring documentary is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)