In recent years, the night sky has unveiled enchanting phenomena known as 'Steve'—unusual streaks of mauve and white lights, accompanied by a distinct glowing feature termed the picket fence. These lights appear near the more familiar and spectacular displays of auroras, which are typically associated with vibrant greens, reds, and purples resulting from interactions between energized particles from the solar wind and Earth’s upper atmosphere.

The phenomenon was first identified in 2018, prompting a wave of curiosity among scientists. The intriguing question emerged: do these lights share the same origins as conventional auroras, or do they arise from entirely different conditions?

Claire Gasque, a dedicated graduate student of physics at the University of California, Berkeley, is at the forefront of this inquiry, proposing an alternative explanation for these captivating lights.

Exploring the Mystique of Steve Lights

Gasque’s research at the Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL) suggests that Steve and the picket fence may be products of a distinct physical mechanism. "We might need to reevaluate and challenge our traditionally held assumptions regarding the origins of auroras," Gasque asserts. This groundbreaking perspective has the potential to alter our understanding of how light and energy contribute to auroral displays, marking a pivotal moment in space physics.

With the sun entering a particularly active phase of its 11-year cycle, researchers believe we may soon witness even more extraordinary phenomena—or uncover new knowledge in the process.

Unlocking New Mechanisms Behind the Glow

Gasque proposes that the peculiar picket fence colors might be the result of electric fields aligned with Earth’s magnetic field. Traditional auroras manifest when charged particles cascade from space and excite atmospheric molecules. However, the purple and mauve hues of Steve lights do not conform to this established pattern, and the picket fence is seen at latitudes where typical auroras are rare—a strong indication that these manifestations might operate under a new set of rules.

Her research indicates that a parallel electric field of approximately 100 millivolts per meter, at altitudes around 110 kilometers, could energize electrons sufficiently to produce the vivid colors we observe. In this region, characterized by low plasma density and a predominance of neutral atoms, these conditions can facilitate energy transfer without interruption.

"The spectrum of the picket fence displays more green hues than we would expect, with minimal blue caused by nitrogen ionization," Gasque notes. "This indicates that the light isn't derived from high-energy particles streaming from space but must be generated on the spot, energized by a unique process involving parallel electric fields."

New Dimensions in the Study of 'Steve'

Brian Harding, an assistant research physicist at SSL and collaborator with Gasque, recognizes the transformative implications of these findings. "Claire's work sheds light on the fact that the strange spectral behavior of Steve indicates the presence of unusual physics at play," he explained.

The team's next objective is to investigate enhanced auroras—bright layers embedded within typical auroras that exhibit similar color patterns to the picket fence. Unlike the rarer picket fence phenomenon, these enhanced auroras are more commonly encountered.

Calling on NASA: A Mission to Uncover the Truth

In pursuit of validation for their hypotheses, Gasque and her collaborators have submitted a proposal for a NASA-backed sounding rocket campaign aimed at bringing new insights into this mysterious phenomenon. The proposed mission is set to launch from Alaska, enabling direct measurements of the electric fields that may be influencing these stunning displays.

The ultimate goal is to unravel how these electric fields form and their significance in the ongoing exchange of energy between Earth and outer space. With the sun's activity increasing, the researchers are optimistic about seizing opportunities to observe and analyze these ethereal lights.

Looking Ahead: What Lies in the Future for Steve Lights?

Gasque highlights the significance of collaborative efforts with experts in diverse atmospheric areas to advance this research. Should NASA greenlight the mission, it could pave the way for groundbreaking measurements of Steve and the picket fence, potentially reshaping the scientific landscape related to auroras.

"This marks only the beginning," warns Harding. "Much more investigation is needed to understand how these electric fields come into being, what accompanying waves exist, and the overarching implications for energy transfer between Earth and space."

As the solar cycle continues to progress, the mysteries of the 'Steve' lights beckon for exploration, potentially leading to unprecedented discoveries about the dynamics of our atmosphere and its connection to the cosmos.

Stay tuned—scientists expect the revelations will reshape our understanding of the beautiful lights that adorn our night skies.