Scientists Are Fighting Lightning Strikes with Lasers

Researchers fired high-powered lasers into the air from a Swiss mountain. The laser beams cause oxygen and nitrogen molecules in the air to drop electrons. This process is called ionisation. Ionised air, also called plasma, can conduct electricity. It attracts lightning bolts in the same way as a lightning rod. Four lightning bolts occurred while scientists were testing the laser lightning rod (LLR). Each one was successfully diverted.