European researchers have created a pylon capable of protecting large areas against thunder using laser pulses. A project called Laser Lightning Rod (LLR) which is revealed through a complete explanatory video.
Despite their use for decades, lightning rods are limited when it comes to protecting large areas. As a reminder, they make it possible to direct the lightning towards the ground in complete safety. A situation about to change thanks to the project Laser Lightning Rod (LLR)? A European team has set up laser pulses which direct the thunder towards a great pylon.
In terms of coverage, we are talking about 180 meters. This technology even penetrates clouds and fog. But how does this technology work?
How does this laser work?
Ionized nitrogen and oxygen molecules release electrons which create a plasma conductor of electricity. The chances of intercepting thunder as it forms are increased because the laser emits 1000 pulses/minute at high speed.
Dr. Aurélien Houard, who leads the project, told the Wall Street Journal that this laser emits 100 times more pulses per second than in previous tests. Experiments were generally limited to shorter distances with slow pulses that could miss the illumination of thunder as it formed.
Before hitting the pylon, lightning followed the beam over nearly 20 meters during a test carried out between June and September 2021. Now, the researchers want to go further by extending the reach of their technology.
Their goal ? That a pylon can cover an area of about 500 meters. But this technology comes at a cost. The laser used in the experiment worth about $2.17 billion.
What use in the future?
This technology is promising because it could protect against lightning over larger areas. In particular, forests and power stations would be secured against the catastrophic consequences of a lightning strike.
Also referred to as rocket launch pads as thunder can cause delays when appearing on the flight path. Basically, better protection for infrastructure and, by extension, for humans.
