Step Made Toward Lightning Control

News
By
published
Lightning reaches down from clouds in a step-by-step manner. But scientists don't know exactly how it works. (Image credit: stock.xchng)

Researchers have taken a first step in bending laser beams that they say could lead to the ability to bend lightning around a building or away from an airport. Yeah, don't hold your breath. But do enjoy reading about the feat: By combining light of different wavelengths, the waves interfere with each other and the beam bends. The thinking is you could fire one of these bendy beams into a cloud and get the lightning to follow it.

[Read the Full Story at Nature News]

In our new Etc. format, LiveScience provides links to articles of interest around the web. It is in Beta.

TOPICS
Live Science Staff
Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.