Lightning Simulation and Testing

Abstract

Laboratory simulation testing is relied upon for assessing the effects of lightning on aircraft and other areospace systems. This paper reviews the laboratory equipment, techniques, and test waveforms used in simulating the important effects of atmospheric electricity on aerospace systems. Test criteria and techniques are well established for simulating the direct physical damage effects of lightning, but tests for determining the indirect, induced-coupling effects of lightning are still in the development stage. These last tests are necessary for evaluating the effects of the lightning environment on modern aircraft which make extensive use of computerized flightcontrol systems.