11. Atmospheric Chemistry Sensors
Understanding the effect of blue lightning on the composition of the upper atmosphere depends on atmospheric chemistry sensors in great part. These sophisticated sensors are meant to detect trace gases and aerosols generated or changed by the strong electrical discharges connected with blue lightning episodes.
These sensors mostly concentrate on the detection of nitrogen oxides (NOx), which lightning is known to generate in somewhat large amounts. Higher altitudes than typical lightning, blue lightning may have special impacts on atmospheric chemistry that could affect other significant atmospheric elements including ozone levels.
Modern atmospheric chemistry sensors use optical absorption spectroscopy, mass spectrometers, and chemiluminescence detectors among other approaches. Usually placed aboard high-altitude research aircraft or balloons, these devices sample the air in areas where blue lightning occurs. Certain sophisticated satellite-based sensors, including those on the Sentinel-5P mission, also yield worldwide estimates of atmospheric composition, so illuminating information on the broad effects of blue lightning on atmospheric chemistry.