How Europe's new space-based camera tracks lightning strikes from 36,000 kilometers above Earth.
The Meteosat Third Generation satellite carries a new Lightning Imager capable of detecting rapid electrical discharges across Europe and Africa. By observing from geostationary orbit, this technology provides weather forecasters with continuous data to improve storm predictions.
Positioned 36,000 km away, the Lightning Imager functions day and night, marking the first time a geostationary weather satellite has monitored lightning activity across Europe, Africa, and surrounding waters. The system utilizes cameras that capture up to 1,000 images per second to track rapid flashes in the atmosphere.
This continuous observation capability is designed to increase the accuracy of severe storm forecasting. By providing real-time data from space, the imager helps meteorologists identify and track storm development with greater confidence.
