Lightning-resistant drone successfully tested in Japan and could revolutionize electricity generation (X @Ryo_Saeba_3)
Japanese scientists from NTT have developed a system with drones capable of attracting and conducting natural lightning to safe locations.
The innovation includes a metallic cage that protects the equipment from electrical discharges, allowing the drones to induce lightning in a controlled manner, with the goal of redirecting it and, eventually, storing its energy.
The technology aims to overcome the limitations of conventional lightning rods, especially in hard-to-reach areas like wind turbines.
The tests were carried out between December 2024 and January 2025 in a mountainous region of Hamada, Japan. The most notable experience took place on December 13, when the drone, positioned during a storm, was able to induce lightning, confirmed by a large electrical current passing through a wire connected to the ground. Although part of the protective structure melted upon impact, the drone continued to function normally and maintained stable flight.
The protection system uses a cage that prevents the electrical current from directly hitting the drone, safely redirecting it. The structure also reduces the effects of the magnetic fields caused by the lightning. In additional tests with artificial currents up to five times more intense than natural ones, the drone showed no failures.
The research team plans to continue improving the method and develop ways to harness the energy from the lightning.
Source: Olhar Digital | Photo: X @Ryo_Saeba_3 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
The Japanese company NTT achieves a world first: attracting lightning to a drone to avoid damage to the ground
NTT (Nippon Telegraph and Telephone), one of Japan’s largest telecommunications companies, specializing in information technology,… pic.twitter.com/qqi6bBG1Gx
— ⛩ Ryo Saeba | Japan XYZ ⛩ (@Ryo_Saeba_3) April 18, 2025
