Scientists use lightning to charge cell phone
theweathernetwork.com
Tuesday, October 1, 2013, 4:06 PM -
Researchers from telecommunications company Nokia and the University of Southampton have successfully used simulated lightning to charge a cell phone.
It's a glimpse into what could become the future of wireless charging.
Scientists say they were surprised to discover the lightning was able to charge the phone in a matter of seconds.
"This discovery proves that the device can be charged with a current that passes through the air, and is a huge step towards understanding a natural power like lightning and harnessing its energy," said University of Southampton scientist Neil Palmer in a statement.
The research is still in its infancy, so it's not known when -- or how -- the technology will be applied.
In the meantime, it's worth noting that the above experiment was conducted in a controlled environment under the supervision of experts.
Don't try this at home, folks.
