Differential Magnetic Measurements near Cumulus Clouds.

Abstract : DS, MAGNETOMETERS, NEW MEXICOThe Atmospheric Sciences Laboratory, White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico has investigated thunderstorm charging currents by a differential magnetometer method in order to better understand the importance of the role of electricity in cloud phenomena. One magnetometer was located near a mountain ridge in the proximity of a cloud genesis area, while a second magnetometer was located five km away at a lower elevation to provide background data. The report assembles pertinent data on the: (1) Magnetometer sites, (2) Equipment used, (3) Sample observations, and (4) Results derived from one year of operation. It is concluded that magnetic perturbations greater than one gamma have been observed in conjunction with cumulus cloud activity in the vicinity of the Organ Mountains, New Mexico. (Author)