NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

For release: 06/12/03
Satellite release #: 03-094

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Attention:  Early Morning Producer
Thursday, June 19
6:00 – 9:00 a.m. EDT
Free 10-minute windows—with B-roll

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NASA studies lightning - 'fire from above' - to help the world; National Lightning Safety Week is June 22-28

• Lightning is dangerous. The National Weather Service reports lightning in the United States kills an average of 73 people every year. It injures hundreds, destroys property and interrupts our lives.
• The NASA lightning team studies this fire from above year-round to learn how lightning, storms, precipitation and severe weather all fit together.
• The team has built and deployed lightning-monitoring equipment on Earth and in space.
• They study this powerful force of nature to improve protection for spacecraft and NASA ground operations while helping all of us better understand lightning.
• The puzzle is far from complete, but they share findings with scientists around the world.
• Talk to an expert about lightning and get timely tips for Lightning Safety Awareness Week.

Who:	Dr. Dennis Boccippio, Lightning Expert Global Hydrology and Climate Center NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center
Satellite coordinates:	GE-2, Transponder 9C, 85 degrees west longitude, Frequency: 3880 MHz, audio: 6.8 MHz.
Contacts:	Satellite Interview Information: Camille Sevier (256) 544-2188 OR Jack Robertson (256) 544-1517 Story Information: Steve Roy, Media Relations (256) 544-0034

For more information:
Note to editors

Visit the Marshall News Center for news media.

Contact Steve Roy Public Affairs Office (256) 544-0034

E-mail Get releases sent directly to you! Contact: Betty Humphery