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On July 23, China successfully launched the Tianlian-2 06 satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3B carrier rocket. During its ascent, the rocket was struck by lightning, creating a spectacular scene. Thanks to the "Faraday cage" effect created by the rocket's metallic shell, the electrical current from the lightning strike flowed mainly along the outer metal surface and was conducted away, while the electric field inside remained nearly zero. This effectively protected the sensitive instruments and payloads inside from damage.

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Rare footage: Chinese rocket struck by lightning during launch