In cooperation with colleagues from the Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences, researchers with the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Cold and Arid Region Environment and Engineering Institute have been successful in an experiment for negative rocket-triggered lightening in a thunderstorm.

While making synchronous, high-precision and multi-parameter observations in Shandong in June, the researchers collected the firsthand data on triggering lightning strikes in the air. They also obtained accurate data on luminescence, electricity and magnetism of the lightening, and 3-D images showing the development process of the electric activities, through simulating a downward precursor process of natural lightening.

According to experts, the feat could provide important evidences for studying the mechanism of lightening, torrential rain watch and pre-warning, and for lightening protection.

(CAS August 29, 2008)