Gamma-rays Associated with Nearby Thunderstorms at Ground Level

TL;DR

This study reports the detection of 28 gamma-ray bursts associated with nearby thunderstorms using the TETRA array, providing insights into the storm cells producing terrestrial gamma flashes at ground level.

Contribution

First ground-level observations of gamma-ray bursts associated with thunderstorms using a dedicated array, enabling detailed analysis of storm-related gamma-ray phenomena.

Findings

28 gamma-ray bursts detected near thunderstorms

Gamma-ray energies ranged from 50 keV to 2 MeV

Detected bursts are associated with storms within 8 km

Abstract

The TGF and Energetic Thunderstorm Rooftop Array (TETRA) is an array of NaI scintillators located at rooftop level on the campus of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. From July 2010 through March 2014, TETRA has detected 28 millisecond-duration bursts of gamma-rays at energies 50 keV - 2 MeV associated with nearby (< 8 km) thunderstorms. The ability to observe ground-level Terrestrial Gamma Flashes from close to the source allows a unique analysis of the storm cells producing these events. The results of the initial analysis will be presented.