Laser Vision

Laser technology can one day enable us to see people behind walls, detect underground infrastructure and develop navigation systems without GPS

17:42 01 December 2016

Laser technology can one day enable us to see people behind walls, detect underground infrastructure and develop navigation systems that do not rely on GPS. 

 

The UK's first commercial atom interferometer - a device that makes ultra-precise measurements of forces such as gravity, was recently launched by M Squared, a laser and photonics specialist. The device, which is designed to cool atoms to near absolute zero, could one day enable us to see people behind walls, detect underground infrastructure without digging holes and develop navigation systems that do not rely on GPS. 

 

Dr Graeme Malcolm, M Squared's chief executive, said: "Extremely sensitive measurements of gravitational acceleration can be used to carry out underground mapping to detect oil and mineral deposits; the early detection of sinkholes; surveying of civil infrastructure; and on space missions," 

 

"Atomic interferometers that are sensitive to magnetic fields will also be used for measuring brain activity in the fight against Parkinson's disease."

 

Earlier this year, archeologists conducted an aerial survey using light detection and ranging (Lidar) in the thick jungles around the ancient Cambodian temple complex of Angkor Wat. The laser pulses used during the survey helped archeologists uncover a new vast network of cities and roads. 

 

 

Meanwhile, an Agrilaser Autonomic will be trialled in Scotland, the Netherlands and Spain to protect farmland. The project, which is funded by the European Commission, will fire laser beams that are perceived by critters as physical danger and is hoped to reduce the use of pesticides.