Which equipment is used to detect lightning in the vicinity of an aircraft?

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The onboard lightning detector is specifically designed for the purpose of detecting lightning in the vicinity of an aircraft. This equipment continuously monitors for electrical discharges associated with lightning, providing pilots with valuable information about the presence and intensity of thunderstorms or lightning activity nearby. Unlike standard weather radar, which primarily provides information about precipitation, an onboard lightning detector focuses directly on lightning activity, giving pilots the ability to make informed decisions regarding flight paths based on the proximity of potentially hazardous weather conditions.

Other systems, while useful for gathering weather data, do not specifically focus on detecting lightning. For example, onboard weather radar can show precipitation and storm cells, but it does not directly indicate lightning. The Automatic Surface Observation System offers real-time weather observations at ground stations, while the Center Weather Advisory System provides advisory information to pilots but does not offer real-time detection of lightning in the vicinity of an aircraft. Thus, the onboard lightning detector is uniquely suited for the task of identifying lightning threats during flight.