Radar vision: smoke, snow, gloom of night not a
problem.
by Williams, Robert H.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
New aviation-safety sensor technology that relies on
millimeter-wave radar and infrared imaging is permitting C-130H
transport pilots to land their aircraft in zero visibility
conditions--including heavy fog, smoke and snow.
A recent test at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., proved the
validity of BAE Systems' autonomous approach and landing
capability, which was sponsored by the Air Force Research Laboratory.
Clark Freise, vice president of defense avionics for the company,
noted that the "technology essentially lets aircrews maintain their
vision through all weather and obscurants." The system and
demonstration, which reached fruition under an $11.4 million contract,
could be adapted for other military and commercial aircraft, he said.
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