What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim was to document the atmospheric potential gradient over the first decade of observations at the Observatory.

February 8, 2026Open Access

The first decade (1929–1939) of atmospheric electricity observations at Świder Geophysical Observatory

Key Points

The aim was to document the atmospheric potential gradient over the first decade of observations at the Observatory.
Routine measurements of the atmospheric potential gradient began in 1929.
Observations were taken using Benndorf electrometers.
Data collection continued until the onset of World War II in 1939.
Continuous recordings of atmospheric potential gradients were successfully made until 1939.
The observations laid the groundwork for future atmospheric electricity studies.
World War II disrupted ongoing research and publication efforts.

Abstract

Abstract. In October 1929, measurements of the atmospheric potential gradient (PG) began to be routinely recorded at the Magnetic Observatory in Świder, Poland. This started a new chapter in the history of the Observatory, in 1937 renamed the Geophysical Observatory in Świder. Two Benndorf electrometers recorded continuously until September 1939. War World II disrupted these observations as well as shattered efforts to publish the results of nearly a decade. Nevertheless, these early actions initiated by the Observatory management shaped its future as it became a contemporary atmospheric electricity station in the second half of the 20th century.

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