World Wide Lightning Location Network
a day ago
- #lightning detection
- #VLF radio
- #meteorology
- The World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) is a VLF radio lightning sensor network operated by the University of Washington.
- WWLLN produces global lightning activity maps using sensors detecting lightning discharges ('sferics') in the 3-30 kHz VLF band.
- Hosting a WWLLN sensor requires providing a computer and covering local expenses; hosts receive global lightning data for research.
- Lightning stroke locations require time-of-arrival data from at least 5 sensors, with detection efficiency around 30% for strokes about 30 kA.
- Optimal global coverage would require 500 sensors spaced 1000 km apart; currently, there are over 70 sensors.
- WWLLN data is available for purchase from August 15, 2004, with hosts receiving free monthly subscriptions.
- Real-time data is available via commercial resellers, while research data is updated every 10 minutes.
- WWLLN collaborates with universities and researchers worldwide to maintain the sensor network.