SOME ATMOSPHERIC ELECTRIC INSTRUMENTS FOR USE IN AIR FORCE OPERATIONS

Abstract

Lightning Hazards: Knowledge of the origin and properties of lightning is reviewed. Requirements are stated for a lightning warning device operating from the electrostatic component of the potential gradient change. Successful lightning counters are examined followed by a design of a recommended lightning detector for Air Force use. Also reported is the development of a corona current detector for use in warning of the onset of electrification in nearby clouds. Fog Forecasting: A method for forecasting onset of fogs using conductivity decreases is reviewed. The success of the method is attributed to the detection of the growth of fog particles before they become an obstruction to visibility. Accordingly, a device was constructed to detect concentrations of atmospheric particles in the range of sizes between nuclei and fog particles. The design characteristics of this device are given. The results of observations at Bedford Airport with apparatus for measuring the electrical conductivity, aerosol concentration, and the visibility are reported. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 31, 1962
Accession Number
AD0273307

Entities

People

  • C.b. Moore
  • P.r. Leavitt

Organizations

  • Arthur D. Little

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Operations
  • Conductivity
  • Delphi Method
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Electrical Conductivity
  • Lightning
  • Observation
  • Particles
  • Visibility

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Atmospheric Science/Meteorology
  • Materials Science and Engineering.
  • Systems Analysis and Design