Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about Earth’s atmosphere and its ambipolar electric field, which was first predicted in the 1960s but never measured until recently. The theory behind this electric field is that sunlight can kick electrons out of atoms in the upper atmosphere, leading to a separation of positively charged ions and negatively charged electrons. The electric field forms to maintain this balance, preventing the electrons from escaping and allowing some ions to break free and form the polar wind. This electric field had never been measured until now, as it was considered too weak to detect.
To measure this elusive electric field, scientist Andrew Collinson and his team developed a photoelectron spectrometer and launched a rocket called Endurance to collect data. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and political tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the team successfully launched the rocket that measured a change in electric potential between different altitudes in Earth’s atmosphere. This measurement explained the existence of the polar wind and provided exciting insights into how the Earth’s atmosphere functions.
The discovery of Earth’s ambipolar electric field is significant not only for understanding our planet’s atmosphere but also for comparisons with other planets like Mars and Venus. Both Mars and Venus have ambipolar electric fields, which may have contributed to their atmospheric losses over time. Earth’s protective magnetic field guides charged particles to escape only near the poles, preventing widespread atmospheric loss. The comparison between different planets and their electric fields can provide insights into what makes a planet habitable and why Earth has maintained its atmosphere for longer periods.
The newfound measurement of Earth’s ambipolar electric field opens up opportunities for further research and exploration. Scientists have received approval for a follow-up rocket named Resolute to gather more data and expand upon the initial findings. Understanding the role of the electric field in the escape of atmosphere into space is crucial for determining a planet’s habitability and may help answer questions about the conditions that allow life to thrive on Earth. By comparing the electric fields of different planets, scientists can gain deeper insights into the factors that contribute to habitability and the preservation of atmospheres over time.
The measurement of Earth’s ambipolar electric field is a testimony to human curiosity and ingenuity in exploring the mysteries of our planet’s atmosphere. The successful detection of this electric field, which had long eluded scientists, has opened up new avenues for research and further exploration. By studying different planets and their electric fields, scientists can unravel the complex interactions that contribute to a planet’s habitability and the preservation of its atmosphere over time. This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the fundamental processes that shape our planet and its ability to support life.
