Unfortunately, the researchers have not been able to generate ball lightning in the laboratory.

BBC: New lead for fireball riddle

The story began in 2006, when Dr Jerby and Dr Dikhtyar managed to create ball-lightning-like fireballs in their laboratory.

ECONOMIST: Ball lightning

But Dr Graham Hubler, of the United States Naval Research Laboratory, who has taken a keen interest in lightning balls, says the research has much promise.

BBC: New lead for fireball riddle