Physical Notes | Nature

ABSTRACT A SINGULAR phenomenon was seen (according to the _New York World_) recently off the coast of Florida by the officers of the brigantine _Fortunate_. Shortly after dark two columns of

fire appeared, seemingly a mile away. They were fifty yards apart and about 500 feet high, arching towards one another at the top, but without meeting. They were of a dull red colour,

without sparks; but the arching portions emitted tremulous rays or streamers of light like those of the aurora. They were visible all night, but faded at daybreak. The weather was fine, not

a cloud being seen all night. The following day there was a gale of wind accompanied by thunder, but no rain. It is not stated in what quarter of the heavens the appearance was seen. Could

it have been an _aurora_? Access through your institution Buy or subscribe This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution ACCESS OPTIONS Access through your

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FAQs * Contact customer support RIGHTS AND PERMISSIONS Reprints and permissions ABOUT THIS ARTICLE CITE THIS ARTICLE _Physical Notes_ . _Nature_ 22, 301–303 (1880).

https://doi.org/10.1038/022301b0 Download citation * Issue Date: 29 July 1880 * DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/022301b0 SHARE THIS ARTICLE Anyone you share the following link with will be able

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