GRAIL · Gamma Radiation from the Atmosphere for Investigation and Learning

Thunderstorms emit radiation across a spectrum from visible light to gamma rays, including terrestrial gamma-ray flashes and produce flickering gamma-ray flashes, thunderstorm ground enhancements and long-lasting gamma-ray glows which are the most energetic natural processes on Earth, with energies beyond those of radioactive decay chains as they appear in nuclear power plants. Sporadically observed since the ‘80s by aircraft and balloon platforms, by satellites, and on ground, these phenomena have been considered exotic and rare for decades. However, recent measurements have shown that high-energy emission is indeed common, pervasive and extended over huge areas, and that the phenomena are much more complex and inter-related than previously thought, posing new challenges. Despite their common nature, we are lacking fundamental knowledge about their generation and about their effects on humans, technology and the environment.The goal of the proposed Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network is to gain a deeper understanding of high-energy emissions from thunderclouds, their relation to lightning and their effects. The consortium is built such that these phenomena are addressed through observations, numerical modelling and experiments. Additionally, we will develop new detectors suitable for future missions detecting such radiation in-situ or from space by building a consortium of international partners both academically and from industry.Hence, the GRAIL project combines innovative research and technological aspects providing a training environment for doctoral candidates in gas discharge physics, atmospheric electricity, modelling, data analysis and technological development. GRAIL has thus been designed to train the next generation of researchers and prepare them to be lead scientists in academia focusing on atmospheric electricity, and – through the incorporation of industrial partners – in industry interested in thunderstorms and lightning.