We created three of these amazing specimens during our 4Q2011 Lichtenberg Run. These museum-quality specimens were irradiated on two sides by passing them through a 5 million volt electron beam, carefully rotating the charged specimens 180 degrees, and then passing them through the beam a second time. This created a pair of internal charge layers separated by about a one inch gap. The discharges form a linked pair of parallel discharge planes, each located about 1/2" below the surface. These particular specimens couldn't quite hold all of the trillions of electrons we injected, and they self-discharged while going through the beam during the 2nd pass. The initial discharge triggered a raging "electrical storm" inside the specimen as additional charge was injected by the electron beam and then discharged in a rapid series of complex, multiple discharges. The end result was a spectacular combination of dendritic (branching) and chaotic discharges along the two charge planes and numerous shorter discharges between the two planes.  Self-discharged specimens are among the most interesting specimens we offer - their complex, high current discharge patterns cause numerous fractures in the acrylic, making larger current channels appear almost crystalline. The intensity of the discharge structures provides a permanent reminder of the high energy processes involved in creating these sculptures. The discharges also mirror the awesome power and chaos that occurs when natural lightning hits terrestrial objects. The illuminated "fossilized" trails can almost be considered as a 3D time-lapse captured from a raging lightning storm - hence, "Captured Lightning".

Each specimen comes with its own  beautifully-finished natural walnut custom light base. The images below show the sculptures being illuminated by a combination of electric blue and bright white LED strips. We can provide bases with all white, all blue, or other color combinations. In the sculptures below, the white and blue LED's bathe the internal discharges in light, causing them to sparkle with a pleasing interplay of colors. Even the finest details of the fractal patterns are highlighted.

These are among some of the most majestic Captured Lightning sculptures ever offered.  The images below show one of these specimens being illuminated by the base and also in natural light - click on them to see high resolution images. The amber-tint of the specimen in natural light is due to "solarization" - temporary coloration of the acrylic due to the electron beam. This fades with the passage of time.



Sculpture and light base are sold as a pair for $2750. We ship to most countries worldwide. Because of their large size and shipping weight, shipping must be individually quoted based upon your geographical location. Power adapters are available for US, UK, EC, and Australian power. A Statement of Provenance will be provided upon request. Only a few of these magnificent sculptures are available.

Return to Gallery 1

(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)
Specimen A Front view at an angle. Mostly dendritic discharges.	Specimen A Front view	Specimen A Closer view of top half
(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)
Specimen A Closer view of lower half	Specimen A Side view showing the two interacting discharge planes	Specimen B Front view at an angle. A mix of dendritic and chaotic discharges
(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)
Specimen B Front view	Specimen B Closer view of top half	Specimen B Closer view of bottom half
(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)
Specimen B Side view showing the two interacting discharge planes	Specimen C Front view at an angle. A mix of dendritic and chaotic discharges (Sorry - sold!)	Specimen C Front view (Sorry - sold!)
(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)	(Click above for larger image)
Specimen C Closer view of top half (Sorry - sold!)	Specimen C Closer view of bottom half (Sorry - sold!)	Specimen C Side view showing the two interacting discharge planes (Sorry - sold!)