The European Space Agency's (ESA) state-of-the-art International Gamma Ray Astrophysics Laboratory (Integral) made crucial observations that indicated a transformation in the ionosphere's electric fields. This change extended down to the atmospheric strata closest to Earth's surface, triggered by the brightness of this gamma flare, unparalleled in observed history.
Strikingly, this gamma flare also set off lightning detectors based in India, causing a prolonged disruption in the ionosphere that lasted several hours post the initial flare. This event stands as a seminal discovery - the first recorded incident where a GRB influenced Earth's atmosphere to such an extent.
Scientists worldwide were taken aback by this discovery, prompting them to delve deeper into the intricate relationship between GRBs and our ionosphere. Despite the widespread alterations in the ionosphere, there is no substantiated evidence that such an event could compromise the integrity of our ozone layer or trigger a mass extinction.
However, the importance of further investigation into this phenomenon cannot be understated. Understanding the potential implications of a GRB located closer to Earth is vital. The findings of this study, a significant contribution to the field of astrophysics, were published in the esteemed journal, Nature Communications.
References
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2515-5172/ac9d2f/meta#msdynttrid=qV6OH__lDtaja6DELxVPlz4k5x0N4Xhdd_-uv-9WPEA
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-42551-5
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