Initiation of Spark Discharges between Artificial Thunder Cells Using a Hydrometeor

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of the influence of model hydrometeor arrays on the initiation and propagation of the spark discharges between the artificial thunder cells of the negative and positive polarity. It is specified that introduction of the negative and positive polarity of the model hydrometeors of different types joined into the array using the various methods into the gap between the artificial thunder cells, leads to the significant growth of the probability of initiation of the spark discharges between the cells and total length of the forming discharge system. It is stated that the model hydrometeors of the cylindrical form joined into the group using the dielectric string or tape are the most efficient for these purposes. The physical picture of formation of the spark discharges by the groups of the hydrometeors between the artificial thunder cells of the different polarity is constructed considering the possibility of formation of the high-current streamer and volume leader discharges.