Advanced Total Lightning Sensor, the Latest in Precision Lightning Geolocation Technology

Vaisala (Finland) have introduced their new Advanced Total Lightning sensor, the LS7002, offering the latest in precision lightning technology. It is the first, non-VHF, lightning detection sensor to detect Total Lightning and, at the same time, correctly differentiate between cloud and cloud-to-ground lightning. The sensor is designed to operate as part of a network to provide real-time data for operations focused on tracking cloud and cloud-to-ground lightning threats to ground-based and airborne assets. The sensor is suitable for meteorological and climatological measurements, as well as applications in aviation, telecommunications, power utility, defense and forestry.

The Vaisala LS7002 sensor detects low frequency (LF) electromagnetic signals generated by lightning. The sensor is designed with extremely precise geolocation capability, as well as industry-leading measurement accuracy of lightning strength and lightning type classification. The LS7002 also offers calibrated lightning parameters, and the sensor does not require calibration during normal operations, which leads to cost savings without any operational breaks.

An LS7002 network uses a patented combination of time-of-arrival and magnetic direction finding techniques to deliver superior detection efficiency, optimal location accuracy, with excellent system redundancy, while still utilising fewer sensors - no other company provides this blend of cost efficiency and scientifically validated best performance. Vaisala lightning technology means that a larger area of coverage can be monitored with fewer sensors, providing a detection system with lower lifetime network ownership costs than any other technology.

In addition, an efficient, lightweight electronics module allows for easy installation and maintenance with stand-alone, rooftop and indoor electronic mounting options. When working in severe weather locations, the sensor electronics can be installed separate from antenna installation.

Whenever a new Vaisala lightning sensor is introduced, such as the LS7002, Vaisala also uses the opportunity to update its Total Lightning Processor (TLP). This processor is used within Vaisala's lightning detection networks and is designed to provide data for a wide range of applications. The TLP allows users the flexibility to select features that are best suited for their requirements. Licenses are available for the following TLP features, including: system and sensor performance monitoring; network performance mapping; as well as detection efficiency (DE) and location accuracy (LA) projections. There is also an advanced lightning type classification option for "burst" processing and advanced waveform parameters.

These features provide more efficient network operations, stabilised performance, and deliver advanced information with regard to geolocated lightning events. The TLP100 Series processes data from Vaisala's low frequency (LF) sensors delivering unmatched performance; detecting, characterising and classifying cloud pulses and cloud-to-ground strokes. The TLP200 Series processes data from both Vaisala's LF and very high frequency (VHF) sensors providing Total Lightning Mapping solutions, including the full spatial extent of any lightning threat.