Airport Laser Scanner Could Be Ready by 2016

By Myles Collier, Christian Post Contributor Friday, July 13, 2012

A new type of molecular-based laser scanner is rumored to be in development and may be deployed at border crossings and airports across the nation. The new laser will be able to detect explosive material and other drugs as well as any potential residue left inadvertently on clothes.

The new laser, which some have speculated would be able to operate at distances of up to 150 feet, may be ready as early as 2016, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

"We're always looking for new and innovative ways to detect threats and ensure the safety and security of the traveling public," Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman, Nicole Stickel, told FoxNews.com.

The laser system, which is being developed by Genia Photonics, uses a technique called laser spectroscopy that looks for small amounts of elements of chemical compounds and radiation. The idea is to scan large swaths of people who are in high travel areas such as airports, checkpoints, or sports events.

"Their plan is to install this molecular-level scanning in airports and border crossings all across the United States. The official, stated goal of this arrangement is to be able to quickly identify explosives, dangerous chemicals, or bioweapons at a distance," according to a report at Gizmodo.com.

"The machine is ten million times faster - and one million times more sensitive - than any currently available system. That means that it can be used systematically on everyone passing through airport security, not just suspect or randomly sampled people."

But not all scientists are convinced this new laser could do all of the functions it has been said could be done without requiring additional support.

"Even if Genia Photonics can produce such a laser, the actual application for concealed weapon or explosive detection requires a lot more work," Akos Vertes, a professor at George Washington University, told FoxNews.com.