The Airglow phenomenon is essentially when atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere, excited by sunlight, emit light to shed their excess energy. It also occurs when atoms and molecules that have been ionized by sunlight collide with and capture a free electron. When these things happen, a particle of light, called a photo, is ejected in order to relax again.
NASA observes Airglow to study the ionosphere, which stretches between 50 to 400 miles above the surface, because it causes turbulence and could interfere with orbiting satellites or communication signals. This electrified layer of the upper atmosphere is pounded by the Sun’s UV radiation until molecules break apart, resulting in a mix of charged ions and electrons. Don’t confuse Airglow with auroras, the latter of which are fleeting while the former constantly shines throughout Earth’s atmosphere.
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Each atmospheric gas has its own favored airglow color depending on the gas, altitude region, and excitation process, so you can use airglow to study different layers of the atmosphere. We’re not studying airglow per se, but using it as a diagnostic,” said Doug Rowland, an astrophysicist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.
