Remote Radiation Detection by Electromagnetic Air Breakdown

Introduction Emerging radiation sensing techniques that measure changes in the dielectric properties of air may offer ultralong-range radiation detection capabilities with potential applications in counterforce targeting and counterproliferation. These radiation detection systems use the reflection of high-intensity radiofrequency (RF) or infrared (IR) pulses to probe the concentration of charged species produced by radiation-induced ionization in air.1 The measurement technique is purely optical, and therefore requires no detection hardware near the radiation source. Although this family of techniques is in its infancy, lab-scale systems have been shown to be sensitive to radiation fields similar to what one would find in the immediate vicinity of a nuclear warhead or near a UF6 storage cylinder.2,3 With sufficient development, this technology could be used to hunt for nuclear warheads on dual-capable systems, determine the location of uranium handling facilities, and find illicit reprocessing facilities without the need for detectors deployed on the ground.