Abstract: The invention involves a process for artificially triggering an avalanche. The invention process includes a first step of filling at least one flexible envelope with an explosive fluid and a second step of triggering an explosion of the aforesaid fluid within each envelope, each envelope being destroyed by the explosion of the fluid. The destruction of the envelope allows for propagation of an aerial spherical overpressure wave which will affect an optimal area of the blanket of snow to be removed and will shake the aforesaid area and trigger an avalanche. The invention also involves a device for applying this process, the aforesaid device including at least one envelope to contain the explosive fluid, and means to trigger the explosion of this fluid within each envelope.

Abstract: A device and method for protecting a site against lightning strikes. The device detects the approach of a lightning discharge towards the site. In response, the device forms an ionized channel in the vicinity of the site to direct the electrical lightning discharge towards a lightning conductor.

Abstract: System for artificially triggering lightning flashes. This system comprises a rocket, provided with fins, launched from a launcher and which trails behind it a thin wire made from a conductive material, which is either electrically connected to the ground, or is connected to a second wire made from an insulating material, which is in turn attached to the ground, as well as a pay-out reel. The pay-out reel is constituted by a reel body in the form of a cylindrical tube onto which the wire is wound with a limited winding thickness, mounted at the lower end, centered on the central axis of the rocket, the reel having a diameter larger than that of the rocket body and smaller than the apparent diameter of the guidance fins. The launcher is constituted by a plastic tube.