One of Jupiter’s greatest mysteries may be solved


Just like Earth, Jupiter is home to polar lights, driven by charged particles racing through the planet’s magnetic field. When these charged particles hit the atmosphere, they release electromagnetic radiation. However, the aurorae of Jupiter are (as might be expected) far more powerful than the iridescent displays we see at home. Hundreds of gigawatts of X-ray energy released in the auroral displays of Jupiter would be powerful energy to (momentarily) feed all human energy needs. And, oddly, there are also regular flashes of light that blaze up every half hour or so, adding another piece to this mystery of Jupiter. “Since…

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