excimerrampen

Excimerrampen is a term used in speculative atmospheric science to describe a family of transient luminous events triggered by bursts of ultraviolet radiation from excimer sources interacting with the upper atmosphere. The name combines excimer, referring to excited-state dimers used in ultraviolet lasers, with rampen, a word borrowed from Dutch meaning “disasters” or “ramps,” reflecting the observed rising arcs.

Mechanism. In the proposed scenario, short, high-intensity UV pulses emitted by industrial or research-grade excimer lamps create localized ionization pockets in the mesosphere or lower thermosphere. The ensuing photochemical and electromagnetic processes produce several parallel luminous bands that appear to ascend in a ramp-like fashion over tens of seconds. The effect is typically observed under dark sky conditions and moderate geomagnetic activity.

Occurrence and observations. Excimerrampen remain primarily described in speculative literature and a small set of field observations near large facilities employing excimer technology. Reports emphasize visual brightness and a slowly sweeping arc, rather than rapid flashes. Scientific consensus on frequency and global distribution is not established.

Impacts and safety. The phenomenon is generally considered aesthetically striking but potentially disruptive to high-frequency radio communications and satellite navigation when ionization levels are elevated. Potential mitigation includes emission scheduling, shielding, and plume management for excimer facilities.

See also. aurora, airglow, sprites, excimer lasers, atmospheric electricity.