Study of a high energy instrument aboard the scientific Falcon aircraft (EXAEDRE campaign)

Abstract

In 2018 it is scheduled the EXAEDRE campaign in which a scientific Falcon aircraft will be equipped with several instruments to investigate the microphysics of thunderstorms. The UPC Lightning Research Group will participate in the measurements of the high energy radiation from thunderstorms. The objective of to define the participation of the UPC group in collaboration with other groups (France and US) that will allow to install a high energy instrument on the aircraft.

Lightning is one of the most investigated natural phenomena in recent times. Although practically any living being has seen one lightning at least once in its life, this fascinating but dangerous event remains a great unknown today. For this reason, and because of the risk it entails to electrical systems, airplanes and people’s own safety, many research campaigns related to this phenomenon are being developed around the globe. In this context, as part of the EXAEDRE field campaign, the principal purpose of this Bachelor’s Thesis is to study and develop an instrument that will go on board a scientific aircraft for measuring high energy radiation from thunderstorms and lightning. Since one of our aims is detect simultaneous X-ray and microwave emissions, this high energy instrument will be provided of both scintillation and microwave detectors. In addition to them, there will be an electric field antenna because it can serve us to perform in trigger mode as well as to prove whether a lightning was source of the radiation.