The Fire of Saint Elmo

St. Elmo’s Fire is based on St. Erasmus (St. Elmo), the patron saint of sailors. Throughout history, sailors have regained their sense of security in difficult weather conditions with the appearance of St. Elmo’s Fire. Ships sailing in stormy seas, upon seeing this miraculous light, continued their journeys believing they were under the guidance and protection of St. Elmo. It is also known as the “Sailor’s Light.”

So what is the true nature of this light? Is it truly miraculous, or is there a scientific explanation? St. Elmo’s Fire is caused by the excitation of atmospheric gases due to the accumulation of electrical charges in high-altitude areas. It is also known as the corona discharge phenomenon. In this case, tall objects such as ship masts, antennas, or airplane wings attract electrical charges in the atmosphere, and this electrical discharge manifests as a visible light. It can appear in blue, green, or purple hues. The reason for this is the nitrogen and oxygen present in the Earth’s atmosphere. Contrary to what sailors might hope, it often appears during stormy weather and is not a particularly safe phenomenon.

In 1899, Nikola Tesla noted that he observed this light on the wings of butterflies flying around the room while testing an electrical coil. Many historical figures, from Julius Caesar to Magellan, and from Charles Darwin to William Laurence, have observed this light and recorded their observations.

Saint Elmo’s Fire, which also appears in mythological tales, has found its place in popular culture. It can be found in the works of writers such as Shakespeare, Melville, and Jules Verne, as well as in films.