Lightning Grounding Bonding

There is much to learn and understand about lightning. Dr. Martin A. Uman is a renowned American engineer and physicist, widely recognized as one of the world's leading authorities on lightning. Born in 1936, he has made significant contributions to the scientific understanding of lightning phenomena, particularly through his work in lightning modeling, which applies electromagnetic field theory to describe various lightning processes. Dr. Uman's texts should be on your shelf! You won't be disappointed and you will have a definite advantage in your knowledge of the subject. 

Education and Academic Career

Dr. Uman earned his bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in Electrical Engineering from Princeton University, completing his Ph.D. in 1961 . He began his academic career as an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona, where he developed his interest in lightning research. In 1965, he joined the Westinghouse Research Laboratories in Pittsburgh to study the physical and electromagnetic aspects of lightning. By 1971, he became a Professor at the University of Florida, where he has been a pivotal figure in lightning research.

Contributions and Achievements

Dr. Uman co-founded Lightning Location and Protection, Inc. (LLP) in 1975, serving as its president and later as vice-president and chief consulting scientist. LLP developed lightning locating instrumentation that became the basis for the U.S. National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN) . He holds seven patents, six of which are in the area of lightning detection and location.

Throughout his career, Dr. Uman has authored or co-authored several influential books on lightning, including:

1. All About Lightning

Aimed at general readers, this book presents a comprehensive introduction to lightning through a question-and-answer format. It addresses common curiosities such as the mechanics of lightning rods, the phenomenon of ball lightning, and the nature of St. Elmo's Fire. The text is complemented by clear diagrams and striking photographs, making complex concepts accessible to non-specialists. 

2. Lightning

Targeted at advanced undergraduates and professionals in physics or engineering, this book delves into the physical nature of lightning. It covers topics such as lightning photography, electrical and magnetic field measurements, and current measurements, all presented with clarity and minimal mathematical complexity. 

3. The Lightning Discharge

This comprehensive monograph offers an in-depth exploration of lightning discharge processes. It examines various stages of lightning, including the stepped leader, return stroke, and dart leader, as well as phenomena like positive and upward lightning. The book is enriched with diagrams, charts, and photographs to illustrate complex concepts. 

4. The Art and Science of Lightning Protection

Focusing on practical applications, this book discusses the design and implementation of lightning protection systems. It covers the physical behavior of lightning, types of lightning damage, and strategies for safeguarding structures and systems against lightning strikes.

5. Lightning: Physics and Effects (co-authored with Vladimir A. Rakov)

This encyclopedic volume serves as a definitive reference on lightning physics and its effects. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including lightning detection, modeling, and protection techniques, making it an invaluable resource for specialists in the field.

6. Lightning: Fire from the Sky

An accessible guide to the science of lightning. It covers how lightning forms, how it's studied, its effects, and safety measures. The book combines clear explanations, minimal math, and striking visuals to make the topic engaging for both students and general readers.

These publications reflect Dr. Uman's extensive research and expertise in the field of lightning studies. Whether you're a curious reader or a professional seeking detailed technical knowledge, his works offer valuable insights into the fascinating phenomena of lightning.

In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Uman has received numerous awards, including the IEEE Heinrich Hertz Medal in 1996 and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the 2018 International Lightning Detection Conference and International Lightning Meteorology Conference.

As of 2021, Dr. Uman holds the title of Emeritus Distinguished Professor at the University of Florida, marking 50 years of service at the institution.