One of the most spectacular lightning strikes we have ever seen

[defacto7]

13. Very nice article!

is says:

Electric charge is of course built up in clouds by the motions of water and ice particles. Lightning moves these charges around. But why some lightning goes up and other bolts go down isn't known.

Actually, no one knows why either types are put into motion. It one of those elusive natural occurrences that is still a mystery. But the idea of cosmic rays being involved is interesting. It may give insight into the upward as well as downward motion. Now that the experiments have shown positive results, it could lead to a lot of answered questions. It's an amazing thought if true... cosmic rays from exploding massive stars and black hole emissions making such powerful signatures on our planet.. as lightning!