France VEGA Early Streamer Emission Lightning Rod

The change in the electric field caused by thunderstorms is the power source for the lightning rod, so no external power supply is needed; the internal triggering device of VEGA utilizes this energy.

Because this internal triggering device generates high-voltage pulses, compared to other objects within the lightning rod's protection zone, the lightning rod releases an upward leader charge earlier. This leader charge then combines with the downward leader charge, becoming the trigger point for the lightning.

To ensure the proper operation of the triggering device, the electrodes of the atmospheric electric field sensing capacitor must maintain good insulation, even in snowy or heavy rain conditions. VEGA adds protective wings to shield these gaps, preventing any contact that could reduce the lightning rod's efficiency.

In all circumstances, the tip of the lightning rod must be at least two meters higher than any other object in the protection zone. Additionally, during installation, a well-grounded path must be provided to conduct the lightning strike current to the earth.