Recent technological advancements have resulted in the new Vaisala TLS200 sensor that will introduce VHF total lightning mapping to regions within the National Lightning Detection Network® (NLDN®). TLS200 is a fully redesigned sensor with powerful signal processing techniques that allow the insertion of VHF total lightning mapping into such large scale networks as the NLDN®. By expanding the coverage area of VHF cloud lightning detection and lowering costs, TLS200 introduces unique methods for capturing over 90% of horizontal cloud lightning by joining pulses to be able to map the full cloud lightning channel.

Since all areas where cloud lightning is overhead are at risk for cloud-to-ground lightning, VHF spatial mapping correctly identifies the lightning threat at surface locations. VHF total lightning mapping reduces the false alarm rate associated with cloud-to-ground lightning warnings by reducing the warning area while maintaining high safety standards. Only with this type of mapped cloud detail can the real benefits of total lightning be utilized to improve warnings and improve situational awareness for improved decision making in airport, meteorological, and other weather critical operations.