Researchers from the University of Calgary are launching large helium balloons in our community to study X-ray aurora.
Lead researcher of the project, Chris Cully, said the aurora we can see at night is caused by electrons coming down from space and eating the atmosphere.
“Sometimes the same things that make the visible aurora makes x-rays as well. Now we can’t see the x-rays from the ground because the atmosphere shields it and absorbs the x-rays that are created. So we flew a balloon above most the atmosphere, up to about 110,00 feet, three times the altitude a passenger aircraft would cruise at.”
Cully said the project will give them insight about the x-rays from the auroras and the absolute highest energy particles coming down from space.
“These particles are trapped in space and actual pose a threat to the satellites that are going through the area. If there is too many of these extremely energetic particles then it can damage the electronics.”
When the x-ray auroras hit the atmosphere, they are absorbed and no longer pose a threat to the space craft and don’t pose a threat to anyone on the ground.
The group will launch four balloons until Aug. 10 that will float for about 10 hours, until landing near Manning, Alberta.
