Lightning in other planets

TL;DR

This paper explores the occurrence and implications of lightning in exoplanet atmospheres, highlighting how cloud coverage and atmospheric dynamics influence electrical activity and the potential development of a global electric circuit.

Contribution

It introduces the concept that lightning can occur on exoplanets with diverse cloud coverage, suggesting the possibility of a global electric circuit beyond Earth.

Findings

Lightning can occur in exoplanet atmospheres with dynamic cloud coverage.

Cloud particles in exoplanets can become charged, leading to discharges.

Exoplanets may develop a global electric circuit similar to Earth's.

Abstract

More than 4000 planet are known that orbit stars other than our Sun. Many harbor a dynamic atmosphere that is cold enough that cloud particles can form in abundance. The diversity of exoplanets leads to differences in cloud coverage depending on global system parameters. Some planets will be fully covered in clouds, some have clouds on the nightside but are largely cloud-free on the dayside. These cloud particles can easily be charged and lightning discharges will occur in cloudy, dynamic exoplanet atmosphere. Lightning supports a Global Electric Circuit (GCE) on Earth and we argue that exoplanet may develop a GCE in particular if parts of the exoplanet atmospheres can remain cloud free.