Strike of Brilliance: Lightning Detection

Did you ever wonder how national weather programs televised from New York know about lightning strikes anywhere in the country? They rely on a company that was founded by University of Arizona scientists in the 1980’s. UA researchers started a detection network that has grown to 150 lightning sensors all over North America and is now part of an international company, Vaisala, with 1,000 employees. By detecting and reporting lightning wherever and whenever it first occurs, Vaisala helps people protect themselves and their families, thanks to UA scientists with heads in the clouds but feet firmly on the ground.