Title: The Future of the Laser Lightning Rod

Abstract: The recent development of high average, high peak power lasers has revived the effort of using lasers as a potential tool to influence natural lightning. Although impressive, the current progress in laser lightning control technology may only be the beginning of a phase involving a positive feedback between powerful laser development and atmospheric research. In this review paper, we critically evaluate the past, present and future of the Laser Lightning Rod Technology (LLRT) approach, considering both technological and scientific significance in atmospheric research.