Extraordinary Atmospheric Phenomenon

Abstract

I INCLOSE a paragraph from the Glasgow Evening Citizen of this date relating to that peculiar form of lightning known as fire-balls. The explanation of the explosion in the funnel is, I think, erroneous, it having been caused by the explosion of the fire-ball, thus driving out the smoke by the fire-doors. The aurora was very bright here on Wednesday evening, showing Piazzi Smyth's line with a small direct vision spectroscope. Before the eye became sufficiently sensitive for measurement, clouds cut off the bright part. The aurora was a general bright northern glow without streamers, and was observed brightest a little after eight (p.m.). These notes may be of use to you in connection with those of other observers.