Global detection of TLEs using the Schumann resonance

Because a Q-burst is closely tied to an energetic positive discharge and that discharge often accompanies a sprite (see #66), the spectral characteristics of the Schumann resonance and of individual Q-bursts can be used for the global detection of TLEs — and that from a surprisingly small number of measuring stations. Guha 2017

The advantage of the ELF band is the very small attenuation of waves in the Earth-ionosphere cavity: the signal of an energetic discharge propagates across the entire planet, so even a few suitably placed receivers cover global activity. The key is precise timing using GPS: thanks to synchronized time stamps, the arrival times of the pulse at different stations can be compared and the source localized (see #70). Guha 2017

This approach reverses the usual perception of Q-bursts. For estimating the modal parameters of the background, Q-bursts are disruptive and are removed (see #64, cluster E); for detecting TLEs, on the contrary, they are precisely the useful signal. The same event is thus, depending on the point of view, either "noise" to be filtered out, or a "signal" that carries information about the planet's strongest storm discharges.