On the possibility of location of radiation-emitting region in thundercloud

Abstract

We present and discuss the modulation effect the large electrical fields within thunderclouds pose on the flux of high-energy muons. This short duration effect, observed by the particle detectors located at Aragats Space Environmental Center (ASEC) can be used for the location of the radiation-emitting region in the thundercloud. The decrease in the count rate of high-energy muons during thunderstorms along with simultaneous large enhancements in the count rates of low energy electrons and gamma rays can be used also for the estimation of the net potential drop in the lower dipole of the thundercloud.