Distance to Lightning Strokes as Determined from Electrostatic Field Strength Measurements

Abstract

Determination of distance to lightning strokes by measuring amplitude of electrostatic field jumps is discussed. Measurements by the author show that the amplitudes of lightning strokes have a log-normal probability distribution with a standard deviation of ±9 db. Because electrostatic field strength decreases with the third power of the distance, distance to the strokes can be estimated with appreciable accuracy. Test of an Instrument whose design is based on these principles is described and results are discussed.