Project Title:

Investigation of the Triggering of Lightning by Launch Vehicles During Ascent

13.03-0070A
Investigation of the Triggering of Lightning by Launch Vehicles During Ascent
Electro Magnetic Applications Inc.
PO Box 260263
Denver
CO
80226-0263
Rodney A.
Perala
(303-980-0700)
KSC

Abstract:

The specific objective of this project is to develop a triggered lightning model
which has the ability to ascertain reliably the electrical threat to ascending launch
vehicles. This will be accomplished through a series of specific tasks which examine
all important aspects of the triggering phenomenon individually. These tasks will
investigate: the microphysics of the discharge process; the effect of thunderstorm
particles; the effect of global and local variations in air pressure; the effect
of a rocket plume; and the conditions under which arc formation occurs rather than
simple electrical corona. The results of the specific tasks will be integrated into
a single triggered lightning model. This model, given the flight environment, will
be able to predict whether triggered lightning can occur for a specific launch vehicle
and will also be able to predict the effect on the vehicle if triggered lightning
does occur.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  Prediction of triggered lightning potential when
thunderstorms cannot be avoided will be of great interest to aviation industry.