In-situ Electrodynamics over Sprite Producing Storms in Southern Brazil

Investigator(s):

Robert Holzworth (PI)

Sponsor:

University of Washington, WA 98105 2065434043

Start Date/Expiration Date

2004-06-15 to 2006-05-31 (amended 2005-03-04)

Awarded Amount to Date:

$247,895

Abstract: Four campaigns launching stratospheric balloon flights above large thunderstorm systems with sprite production potential are executed in Brazil to measure associated electromagnetic fields and X-ray fluxes. The first data pertaining to the electric field, electrodynamics, optical emissions, and X-ray production within 100 km of a sprite are assembled, and used to improve our understanding of underlying sprite physics and sprite energetics. The data are broadly disseminated and cast as input to existing sprite models.

NSF Org:

ATM - Division of Atmospheric Sciences

Award Number:

0355190

Award Instrument:

Continuing grant

Program Manager:

Robert B. Kerr
ATM Division of Atmospheric Sciences
GEO Directorate for Geosciences

NSF Program(s):

AERONOMY, PHYSICAL & DYNAMIC METEOROLOGY, PHYSICAL METEOROLOGY

Field Application(s):

Space

Program Reference Code(s):

INTERDISCIPLINARY PROPOSALS, 4444
PHYSICAL METEOROLOGY, 1522
UNASSIGNED, 0000

Program Element Code(s):

1521
PHYSICAL & DYNAMIC METEOROLOGY, 1525
PHYSICAL METEOROLOGY, 1522