A Study of Stratospheric Discharges
Abstract
Observational data and theoretical considerations in the literature suggest that the electrical activity of large thunderstorms can result in lightning and other dielectric breakdown processes within the stratosphere. Field investigations have been undertaken to secure data on the nature of these discharges and their frequency of occurrence. Studies of lightning spectra made from the ground in New York and New Mexico failed to indicate anomalous spectra that might characterize low pressure discharges in the stratosphere. Photographs, spectral observations, and field change measurements were made from a U-2 aircraft looking down on an active thunderstorm suggesting that lightning discharges can frequently be produced that will traverse stratospheric air.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA102284
Entities
People
- Bernard Vonnegut
- Richard E. Orville
Organizations
- State University of New York at Albany