Thor would be proud when he learns that earthlings have found out how to trigger and redirect lightning through the use of lasers.
How can laser beams control lightning bolts? Scientists have been exploring the idea since the 1990s, when lasers that could produce trillions of watts were used to study electron activity in air. It was found out that through these laser beams, the air was kept ionized, but the former did not lead to a lightning.
The Science Behind Laser-Controlled Lightning
A group of researchers led by André Mysyrowicz continued their studies and found out that with the presence of laser filaments, lightning is able to jump to the filament and follow it, then it jumps to an electrode. Normally, lightning moves from one electrode to another. This is closer to what can possibly happen in real life, and Mysyrowicz’s team is planning more simulations that would require more potent lasers to concretely direct and redirect lightning.
The concept of using lasers to control lightning is based on the principle of ionization. When a high-powered laser beam is directed into the air, it creates a path of ionized particles, known as a filament. This filament acts as a conductive channel for the lightning to follow. By strategically placing electrodes and directing the laser beams, scientists can potentially guide the lightning to a specific target, reducing the risk of uncontrolled lightning strikes.
Potential Applications and Future Research
The ability to control lightning has numerous potential applications. For instance, it could be used to protect critical infrastructure, such as power plants, airports, and military installations, from lightning strikes. By directing lightning away from these sensitive areas, the risk of damage and disruption can be significantly reduced. Additionally, this technology could be used in weather modification efforts, such as inducing lightning to prevent the buildup of static electricity in storm clouds, thereby reducing the likelihood of severe storms.
Mysyrowicz’s team is not stopping at just theoretical studies. They are planning more advanced simulations and experiments that will require even more powerful lasers. These future studies aim to refine the technique and make it more practical for real-world applications. The researchers are also exploring the possibility of using different types of lasers and varying the intensity and duration of the laser pulses to achieve better control over the lightning.
One of the challenges that researchers face is the need for extremely high-powered lasers. Current laser technology is still evolving, and the development of more potent lasers is crucial for the success of this endeavor. Additionally, the safety and feasibility of deploying such technology in populated areas need to be thoroughly evaluated.
Another interesting aspect of this research is its potential impact on our understanding of lightning and atmospheric physics. By studying how lightning interacts with laser-induced filaments, scientists can gain new insights into the behavior of lightning and the conditions that lead to its formation. This knowledge could contribute to improved weather forecasting and better prediction of lightning-related hazards.
The idea of controlling lightning with lasers is not just a futuristic concept but a rapidly advancing field of research. With continued efforts and advancements in laser technology, the dream of directing and redirecting lightning could become a reality. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize how we protect our infrastructure and manage weather-related risks.
via New Scientist
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