NLDN responses to rocket-triggered lightning at Camp Blanding, Florida, in 2004–2009

Abstract

We evaluated performance characteristics of the U.S. National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN) using rocket-triggered lightning data acquired in 2004–2009 at Camp Blanding, Florida. A total of 37 negative flashes, that contained leader/return stroke sequences (a total of 139) were triggered during these years. For all the return strokes, locations of channel terminations on ground were known exactly, and for 122 of them currents were measured directly using non-inductive shunts. The NLDN recorded 105 Camp Blanding strokes in 34 flashes. The resultant flash and stroke detection efficiencies were 92% and 76%, respectively. The median absolute location error was 308 m. The median NLDN-estimated peak current error was -6.1%, while the median of absolute value of current estimation error was 13%. The results are applicable to negative subsequent strokes in natural lightning.