NSSL NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory

Did you know that lightning can be detected and mapped in real-time? Thanks to advanced technologies and networks, we are able to gain valuable insights into this powerful natural phenomenon. In this article, we will explore the lightning detection methods used by the NSSL NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory and the exciting research they conduct.

Lightning Detection Networks

The National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN), owned by Vaisala Inc, and the Earth Networks Total Lightning Network are two networks that play a pivotal role in lightning detection in the United States. These networks operate by detecting radio waves emitted by lightning channels, allowing them to identify cloud-to-ground (CG) and intra-cloud (IC) lightning flashes. By analyzing the radio signals detected by multiple stations, the networks can determine the location of lightning strokes through a time-of-arrival technique. CG return strokes, which carry larger currents, are easier to detect and provide more accurate location data.

It is worth noting that both systems may detect multiple strokes for a single lightning flash. While CG flashes often have multiple return strokes, bringing negative charge from the cloud to ground, positive CG flashes usually have a single return stroke. However, positive CG return strokes tend to have sustained currents, which can increase the risk of igniting fires.

The NSSL utilizes data from the NLDN to study how storms produce CG flashes and their relationship to other storm hazards.

Lightning Mapping Arrays

Lightning Mapping Arrays (LMAs) offer three-dimensional mapping of lightning channel segments near the array. With the ability to map thousands of points for a single lightning flash, LMAs provide valuable insights into the location and structure development of lightning. Research LMA systems are deployed in various locations, including Oklahoma, the Texas Panhandle, northern Alabama, and Washington D.C.

LMA systems detect radio noise in the very high frequency (VHF) band, around 60 MHz. By leveraging a time-of-arrival technique and analyzing data from multiple stations, LMAs can determine the source points of lightning in three dimensions and time. The high time resolution enables scientists to track lightning progress within different regions of storms. From small, millisecond-long flashes to large flashes spanning several seconds, LMAs capture a wide range of lightning behavior.

The NSSL utilizes the Oklahoma Lightning Mapping Array (OKLMA) to investigate how lightning characteristics relate to updrafts, precipitation, and severe storm processes. Additionally, scientists use OKLMA data in weather forecast models.

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Geostationary Lightning Mapper

The Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) is an instrument mounted on weather satellites, such as GOES-16 and GOES-17, launched in 2016 and 2018. Offering continuous monitoring day and night over the Americas and adjacent ocean regions, the GLM provides a comprehensive view of total lightning activity. It records the optical emissions of lightning, measuring flash brightness, coverage area, and frequency over specific locations. However, it does not indicate if a lightning channel hits the ground.

Functioning like a fast infrared video camera, the GLM captures approximately 500 images per second, allowing for the observation of lightning's progression within a cloud. With a spatial resolution of about 8 km, each camera pixel can capture a small thunderstorm or part of a large storm. The GLM's capabilities have opened up new applications for total lightning data, benefiting aviation weather services, climatological studies, and even hurricane monitoring.

NSSL and its partners are actively developing applications and products utilizing GLM data. By analyzing flash rates, scientists gain insights into thunderstorm development, updraft growth, and the formation of precipitation and downdrafts.

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Other Lightning Sensors

In addition to the aforementioned lightning detection systems, other optical sensors have played a vital role in capturing lightning from space. The Optical Transient Detector and the Lightning Imaging Sensor have paved the way for advanced lightning observation techniques. While the GLM monitors optical emissions from lightning, these sensors respond to different aspects of lightning, from high currents to VHF radiation and optical emissions.

Each sensor provides unique information about lightning in a storm, enhancing our understanding of this fascinating natural phenomenon.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How do lightning detection networks work?
A: Lightning detection networks, such as the National Lightning Detection Network and the Earth Networks Total Lightning Network, detect radio waves emitted by lightning channels. By analyzing these radio signals from multiple stations, the networks can determine the location of lightning strokes using a time-of-arrival technique.

Q: What is the purpose of Lightning Mapping Arrays?
A: Lightning Mapping Arrays provide three-dimensional mapping of lightning channel segments near the array. They help researchers understand the location and structure development of lightning within storms.

Q: What is the Geostationary Lightning Mapper?
A: The Geostationary Lightning Mapper is an instrument mounted on weather satellites that continuously monitors total lightning activity over the Americas and adjacent ocean regions. It records optical emissions from lightning and provides valuable insights into flash brightness, coverage area, and frequency.

Q: How do lightning sensors on satellites differ from ground-based systems?
A: Lightning sensors on satellites, such as the Geostationary Lightning Mapper, capture lightning from a different perspective, offering a broader view over large regions. Ground-based systems, such as the National Lightning Detection Network and Lightning Mapping Arrays, provide more detailed information on lightning channels and their development.