(Just a note on a project Im working on as we speak) Hams looking for their next project might be interested in setting up a DIY VLF lightning detection station as part of an expanding network of bolt detector/locators. The Blitzortung network of lightning detectors has been around for a few years and is a community-based, non-commercial alternative to expensive real-time lightning data typically available through Vaisala and others. Its based on GPS-derived time of arrival differences which are integrated at central servers, with the raw data then made available to participants. The stations have recently been redesigned and significantly upgraded. Formerly H-field only systems, they have now have E-field detection capability as well, in addition to multiple automatic or manual filter and gain options. Older stations required additional computers to make them work, whereas the new systems are standalone and communicate with the network directly. Kits for the stations (including PCBs and all components ready to solder, but not connecting coax, ethernet cables or coils/wire antennas) are available to be sent to potential U.S. participants at cost--no profit is made from the kits. Including shipping, the complete kits are generally less than $300, though some participants have spent more on experimental antennas, etc. Partial kits (E-field or H-field only) cost less. Heres the main project site, with forms for requesting more info: blitzortung.org/Webpages/index.php?lang=en&page=3 Heres the official U.S. forum for the project, with lots of extra info (most participants seem to be hams): wxforum.net/index.php?board=115.0 And heres their realtime lightning display: lightningmaps.org/realtime?lang=en (you can pan around the map to get to the U.S.; click the stations: off button to turn on tracking of which stations detect which bolts) Currently, the sparseness of stations in the U.S. means that maybe 10-20% of bolts are detected, depending on the area. In Europe, by contrast, a much higher station density means the bolt detections basically roll in.
Posted on: Wed, 04 Jun 2014 09:59:31 +0000