Abstract: The subject matter described herein relates to a method for collection of atmospheric ions subject to an electron avalanche associated with a gas multiplication effect between parallel plate collectors. A voltage source can be provided. The voltage source can provide a voltage that can cause a high electric field between two consecutive plates of the plurality of parallel plates. The high electric field can cause an electron avalanche that can cause electron multiplication. Energy associated with these multiplied electrons can be extracted, and studied to give insight into where the most abundant source of atmospheric charge is located. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.