Evaluation of the GLD360 performance characteristics using rocket-and-wire triggered lightning data

We estimated the performance characteristics of the Global Lightning Dataset (GLD360) using rocket-and-wire triggered lightning data acquired at Camp Blanding, Florida, in 2011-2013. The data set consisted of 201 return strokes and 84 kiloampere-scale (1 kA) superimposed pulses (initial continuous current pulses and M components) in 43 flashes. All the events transported negative charge to ground. The GLD360 detected 75 strokes and 4 superimposed pulses in 29 flashes. The resultant detection efficiencies were 67% for flashes, 37% for strokes, and 4.8% for superimposed pulses. Out of 75 detected strokes, one (1.3%) was reported with incorrect polarity. The median location error was 2.0km, and the median absolute current estimation error was 27%. This is the first comprehensive evaluation of GLD360 performance characteristics relative to absolute ground truth, with all previous evaluations being at least in part relative to other locating systems. The results presented in this work may be applicable to regions in and around Florida.