Pursuing Sprites: NASA's Exploration of Electric Skies

Paul Smith is a passionate night-sky enthusiast and an accomplished photographer, with an unwavering fixation on an extraordinary natural phenomenon – sprites. Sprites are awe-inspiring bursts of luminosity that gracefully dance high above thunderstorms, captivating anyone fortunate enough to witness their ethereal display.

In an extraordinary expedition that unfolded last October, Paul Smith assumed the role of a seasoned guide, leading none other than NASA scientist Dr. Burcu Kosar on a thrilling quest. Their destination: the remote backroads of Oklahoma, where the skies come alive with these elusive celestial spectacles.

Dr. Burcu Kosar, a dedicated sprite researcher with over 15 years of academic pursuit, embarked on this unique adventure to accomplish a remarkable feat she had yet to achieve – chasing a sprite firsthand. As they ventured into the heart of the stormy Oklahoma night, both seasoned observer and seasoned scientist shared in the anticipation of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, uniting their passion and expertise to unlock the mysteries of these elusive luminous phenomena.