Photographer captures rare gigantic jet during thunderstorms in Puerto Rico

In Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, on a Wednesday morning, a photographer was fortunate enough to film a rare atmospheric phenomenon called a gigantic jet amid thunderstorms. This event is categorized as a Transient Luminous Event (TLE), resembling upside-down red lightning. Such occurrences are not only uncommon but also astonishing to both witness and document. NASA states that gigantic jets are electrical discharges that occur when conditions at the tops of thunderstorms become turbulent, allowing lightning to escape and reach into the upper atmosphere. The video clip reveals a rapid burst of red flashing through the sky, disappearing almost instantly. A slowed-down version highlights the gigantic jet's unique characteristics, including a purpleish-pink base that transforms into bright red branches reaching out into the sky. Only a select few individuals have seen these jets in real life, making any documentation of such an event significant. Earlier this year, NASA astronaut Nichole "Vapor" Ayers also captured an image of a gigantic jet from the International Space Station, which led to debates regarding whether what was photographed was indeed a gigantic jet or another TLE known as a sprite. The difference lies in their altitude, as sprites occur much higher in the atmosphere. In August, NASA confirmed that Ayers had indeed captured a gigantic jet, further elevating the interest in these extraordinary natural phenomena. Events like this highlight the powerful nature of thunderstorms and the remarkable phenomena they can produce, emphasizing both the beauty and unpredictability of our planet's weather systems.