Tractor beam can control lightning strikes: Research
A ray of hope has ushered over minimising fatalities from lightning strikes as a group of researchers have introduced the groundbreaking method of controlling lightning strikes.
They developed a laser tractor beam technology and claimed that it is capable of controlling where lightning hits the ground. It may help the Asian countries to a large extent that record a higher number of deaths from the natural phenomena each year.
The international team led by researchers from Australian National University (ANU) and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra came up with the disclosure few days ago, reports Xinhua.
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They said the technology is capable of controlling the path and direction of lightning before it strikes.
The major breakthrough has the potential to reduce the risk of catastrophic bushfires in Australia, many of which are sparked by lightning hitting the ground in dry bushland.
Vladlen Shvedov, co-author of the study from ANU's Research School of Physics, said that the laser beam mirrors the same process as lightning, creating a path to direct electric discharges to targets.
"The experiment simulated similar atmospheric conditions to those found in real lightning," he said through a media release.
"We can imagine a future where this technology may induce electrical discharge from passing lightning, helping to guide it to safe targets and reduce the risk of catastrophic fires," said the researcher.
How the innovation be beneficial to Bangladesh
Although bushfire is a common calamity in the western countries, the scenario is in stark contrast when it comes to the context of Bangladesh.
Here, several hundred people die being struck by lightning each year.
If the laser tractor beam technology is imported and made compatible with local environment, a good number of lives can be saved from embracing tragic deaths.
According to data gathered by Save the Society and Thunderstorm Awareness Forum, a total of 79 people have died from lightning strike in the country in a span of four months from January to April.
The figure reach several hundred at the end of each year.
To avoid such deaths, people are advised normal safety rules, like being confined in homes, remain alert during rainstorms, etc.
But no technology based initiative has apparently been taken in the country to avoid the tragic incidents.
