Scientists have confirmed the existence of space hurricanes following observations of electrons raining down in Earth's upper atmosphere.
 Scientists have confirmed the existence of space hurricanes following observations of electrons raining down in Earth's upper atmosphere.
'Tropical storms are associated with huge amounts of energy, and these space hurricanes must be created by unusually large and rapid transfer of solar wind energy and charged particles into the Earth's upper atmosphere.
Observations show a large cyclone-shaped auroral spot with a nearly zero-flow center and strong circular horizontal plasma flow and shears, all of which are found in hurricanes in the lower atmosphere.
The latest discovery is the first time a hurricane has been observed in Earth's upper atmosphere
The space hurricane, which occurred during a period of low geomagnetic activity, was found to share many features with hurricanes in the Earth's lower atmosphere, including a quiet centre, multiple spiral arms and widespread circulation