to the U.S. if appropriate. Of great importance is the improvement of methods for calculating ground strike density from the existing thunderstorm data base. 12. Conduct studies using existing thunderstorm electrical theories and models to help in determining the effects of normal perturbations in thunderstorms. 13. Carry out calculations of field enhancement for the rectenna to help determine changes in the dielectric properties of the earth's surface. 14. Conduct studies of corona production and enhancement of space charge and their effect on lightning processes. 3.6.3 Stratosphere and Mesosphere, Nonmicrowave Effects In regard to the stratosphere and mesosphere, the potential exists for significant effects due to rocket exhaust emissions of water vapor at altitudes of 40 km and above, based upon a comparison of measured water vapor concentrations and projected injection rates. Much more detailed calculations are required, however, to properly assess the significance of this potential impact. In addition, because of inadequacies in our basic understanding of the water budget at these altitudes, a significant uncertainty must be associated with any prediction no matter which of the available models is used. The need for additional research in this area is great, and it is recommended that a substantial effort be directed towards increasing our understanding of the water budget in order to provide more reliable grounds for the prediction of effects due to SPS-related water vapor injections. Emissions of the other principal rocket exhaust product, carbon dioxide, are not expected to have a significant impact, again based upon a comparison of the amount already present to that which would be injected. Production of nitric oxide by afterburning in the rocket exhaust is not expected to have significant effects. This conclusion is based, however, upon injection rates estimated for solid-fueled rocket motors, and the estimates may therefore be considerably in error. If the nitric oxide production were increased by an order of magnitude or more, a marginal effect may be expected. It is recommended that estimates of the production of nitric oxide by afterburning effects be made for the specific rocket motors to be used in
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