Magnetic Direction Finding

[ramanda12]

Hello, i am a beginner and an electrical college student.
so, i have a project to try Magnetic Direction Finding (MDF) method to lightning location

because natural lightning occurence is hard to predict, my lecturer suggest me to model it into a spark gap from lightning impulse generator.

i have a question

can antenna for ligtning location system can also work to detect signal from a spark gap? or i have to make another antenna because the difference characteristic between lightning and spark gap? thank you! i hope you understand my english.

[mwaters]

Hello!

I suggested that he ask this question here. Some background, please see his question and the answers (including mine) at
https://ham.stackexchange.com/questions/...0665_17726

Also this one: https://ham.stackexchange.com/questions/...-spark-gap

Please be nice to him.

[dupreezd]

I can't see why you would not be able to use a spark gap. I used a piezo electronic lighter to test an experimental antenna. You have to be close to the antenna, within 12 to 24 inches.
Also keep in mind that ferrites and loop have nulls in certain directions. For example, a ferrite's null is in the direction of the core.

Have fun experimenting.