by germainebull » 27 Nov 2025, 12:38
We have a very exciting story from NASA about the Perseverance rover that has been working on Mars since 2021. Scientists have confirmed for the first time the existence of small lightning called mini lightning. They are not the big bolts we know on Earth but rather static electricity that occurs when dust devils and dust storms circle the surface of Mars. The rover's microphone recorded small arcs running between gas molecules and shockwaves that sound like a desert vibe but on Mars.
This discovery is very important because it has been a big mystery for a long time. Researchers say mini lightning could affect space suits and spacecraft for future missions. It could also contribute to chemical reactions in the Martian atmosphere that could reveal more about the planet's environment. Engineers now have the direction to design materials that are not damaged by these small shocks.
Perseverance has recorded more than fifty-plus incidents, often related to dust storms. This gives them a fresh clue about how Mars works and helps prepare for the next big human exploration. The mini lightning on Mars has opened a new chapter in science and shown that this planet still has a lot of surprises.
Source: UPI
We have a very exciting story from NASA about the Perseverance rover that has been working on Mars since 2021. Scientists have confirmed for the first time the existence of small lightning called mini lightning. They are not the big bolts we know on Earth but rather static electricity that occurs when dust devils and dust storms circle the surface of Mars. The rover's microphone recorded small arcs running between gas molecules and shockwaves that sound like a desert vibe but on Mars.
This discovery is very important because it has been a big mystery for a long time. Researchers say mini lightning could affect space suits and spacecraft for future missions. It could also contribute to chemical reactions in the Martian atmosphere that could reveal more about the planet's environment. Engineers now have the direction to design materials that are not damaged by these small shocks.
Perseverance has recorded more than fifty-plus incidents, often related to dust storms. This gives them a fresh clue about how Mars works and helps prepare for the next big human exploration. The mini lightning on Mars has opened a new chapter in science and shown that this planet still has a lot of surprises.
Source: UPI
