Erlangen 2026 – wissenschaftliches Programm
Bereiche | Tage | Auswahl | Suche | Aktualisierungen | Downloads | Hilfe
T: Fachverband Teilchenphysik
T 18: Methods in Astroparticle Physics I
T 18.4: Vortrag
Montag, 16. März 2026, 17:00–17:15, KS 00.004
Digital broadband interferometry for mapping lightning at the Pierre Auger Observatory — Markus Cristinziani1, •Eric-Teunis de Boone1, Qader Dorosti1, Stefan Heidbrink2, Waldemar Stroh2, Jens Winter2, and Michael Ziolkowski2 — 1Experimentelle Astroteilchenphysik, Center for Particle Physics Siegen, Universität Siegen — 2Elektronikentwicklungslabor der Physik, Universität Siegen
Lightning-related phenomena are known to interact with and influence all detector systems of the Pierre Auger Observatory in Argentina. Notably, the Surface Detector has recorded unique signals linked to Terrestrial Gamma Flashes (TGFs) which are rare phenomena related to the initial processes of lightning. Interpreting these signals remains challenging due to the absence of a system capable of providing detailed 3D imaging of lightning propagation.
To address this gap, we are developing BOLT: Broadband Observatory for Lightning and TGFs, a state-of-the-art interferometric lightning mapping array that enhances the Observatory's unique capabilities for precision research including TGFs. It consists of radio detectors that have been previously developed for the Auger Engineering Radio Array (AERA), located at strategic positions within the Auger field.
This contribution highlights the recent hardware developments, progress towards selective triggering and precision timing, and first field data, illustrating the growing capability of the system for TGF and lightning studies.
Keywords: Lightning; Radio Interferometry; TGF; Pierre Auger Observatory; BOLT