NASA confirms Earth's electric field aids atmospheric escape

NASA scientists have confirmed the existence of a planet-wide electric field, known as the ambipolar electric field, which aids atmospheric escape and shapes the ionosphere. Measurements from the Endurance mission, launched on May 11, 2022, revealed a change in electric potential of 0.55 volts at an altitude of 477.23 miles. This field exerts an outward force on hydrogen ions, 10.6 times stronger than gravity.