Laser Scanner Could Redefine Airport Security

July 11, 2012 By News Staff

Molecular-level laser scanners that identify everything from what a person ate for breakfast to his adrenaline level may soon come to airports and elsewhere, reported Gizmodo. The scanner, which can be used up to 164 feet away from its target, was picked up by intelligence technology not-for-profit In-Q-Tel for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

At a distance, the scanner invented by Genia Photonics can penetrate clothing and other organic materials to offer spectroscopic information, potentially identifying explosives, chemicals, biological weapons or drugs. The compact, portable device offers near-instant detection of trace substances anywhere on a person’s body. Russian scientists have similar technology that was announced in April and, according to the Russian Times, the “laser sensor can pick up on a single molecule in a million from up to 50 meters away."

Gizmodo reported that the machine is faster than any currently available system, which would allow it to scan everyone passing through airport security.

There’s no information about when or if this technology will be implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, but, naturally, privacy concerns abound.

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Comments

Deb | Commented July 12, 2012

Oh, good. More ways to spend money we don't have on useless security theater.

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