A rare red sprite lightning phenomenon was observed and photographed over Tibet on May 31, sparking viral interest on social media. This electrical discharge, occurring high above thunderclouds, presents as a red glow due to atmospheric nitrogen.
Photographer Dong Shuchang captured the event, sharing a slow-motion video on Weibo. He noted his previous sighting was in May 2022, prompting him to document this occurrence more closely. The location of Tibet is key to understanding the atmospheric conditions that may contribute to such events.
The unusual lightning, resembling a backwards flash, elicited reactions ranging from awe to fear online. Some compared the sight to a ghost fire or alien jellyfish, highlighting the phenomenon's otherworldly appearance. The event underscores the ongoing mysteries within our atmosphere.