New Pollution Radar Exposes Urban Smog

March 11th, 2009 by Ariel Schwartz

Ever wonder just how much smog you’re bathing in every day? A new pollution radar developed by Surrey Satellite Technology, the University of Leicester, and EADS Astrium might be able to show you.

The radar, which can be attached to satellites, can monitor air quality across large swaths of urban and industrial spaces. Leiceister scientists are also working on a ground-based version of the CityScan technology. When completed, it will provide real-time, 3D maps of atmospheric gases. The maps will be created analyzing solar/UV radiation from multiple instruments and viewing points–essentially enabling a 3D composite to be created.

According to the World Health Organization, 2.4 million people die each year from air pollution-related causes. Let’s hope CityScan can prevent at least some of these deaths.

Photo Credit: CC licensed by flickr user Storm Crypt









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