Cardiff University
Lightning Laboratory
Facilities
Europe's only research-based lightning laboratory generating full lightning waveforms up to 400kV and 200kAInstrumentation from high-speed cameras, spectroscopy, and schlieren, to materials and gas analysis, as well as modelling and simulation capabilities
High Current Lightning Generator
The high current lightning generator is housed at the Lightning Laboratory in Cardiff Bay. Learn more about parts of the generator <<here>>, see a <<tour>, or watch the process of a <<strike>>
High Voltage Impulse Generators
The lightning generator (high current) is housed at the <<Lightning Laboratory>> in Cardiff Bay. Learn more about parts of the generator <<here>>, see a <<tour>, or watch the process of a <<strike>>
Instrumentation
Instrumentation......
Research
Long-established research in lightning protection and direct-effects in the built environment, such as commercial aircraft, power grids, and wind turbinesExploration of lightning interactions and related phenomena in the natural environment, including trees and rainforests, soil resistivity and magnetism, arc initiation physics, by-produce production and emissions, and lightning within different atmospheres
Engagement
A flagship exhibit at the Royal Society Summer Exhibition 2026.Engagement activities with local schools, charities, and artists. Also exhibited and presented at events such as Hay Literature Festival, Eisteddfods, Techniquest, Museum After Dark, and NERC Showcase events.Exploring pathways for young people who are Welsh and those living in Wales into environmental science careers.
Media
Contributions to documentary films, radio programmes, social media productions, and artists, including BBC TV, BBC Radio, ITV, CBC, and Discovery ChannelA large collection of high quality photographs, high-speed videos, and other lightning-related data
People
A highly experienced team of scientists, engineers, researchers, and public engagement professionals who work with other lightning scientists across the world in both academia and industry.
People
Daniel Mitchard is a particle physicist...
David Clark
Phillip Lugg-Widger is experienced in high voltage and lightning applications, with a particular focus on public engagement, etc.
Christopher Stone is the laboratory manager, and built much of the lightning generator
Contact Us
Cardiff University Lightning Laboratory
Pacific Road
Cardiff
CF24 5HLAdvanced High Voltage Research Engineering Centre
Cardiff School of Engineering
Queen's Buildings
The Parade
Cardiff
CF24 3AA