The distributed aperture array technology utilized in PSI�s microwave imaging radiometer can be leveraged in a number of applications of interest to NASA. Besides passive sensing of microwave radiation from earth and other celestial bodies for weather related data, active operation is a straightforward extension for radar applications where range data is useful. High gain beam forming is readily achieved by the phased array, which is advantageous for communications and telemetry applications.
The applications for PSI?s microwave and millimeter wave imaging technology and its capabilities are numerous and could have an appreciable impact in many commercial and military areas. Millimeter wave radiation is attenuated millions of times less in clouds, fog, smoke, snow, and sandstorms than visual or IR radiation, which enables millimeter wavelength imaging systems to ?see-through? obscurants in day or night conditions. A partial list of applications includes: 1. Marine navigation in dense fog and inversion layers with passive imaging systems 2. Navigational aids for landing aircraft in adverse weather, operating emergency response vehicles in poor weather or smoke, piloting ships in poor-visibility conditions, and monitoring highways for traffic safety 3. Military surveillance and target acquisition in inclement weather with potential use on unmanned autonomous vehicles (UAVs) 4. Enhanced visualization in smoke and fog, providing superior performance over infrared systems for locating victims and navigating within a fire zone 5. Non-intrusive portal security whose use would proliferate in airports, embassies, government and landmark buildings, schools, sports arenas, etc. 6. Scanners at the more than 300 ports of entry into the U.S. to look simultaneously for weapons and contraband without the need for multiple sensors 7. Stand-off frisking, providing police and security guards with the ability to detect concealed objects without the need for physical search
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