Honeywell’s HALAS (High-Altitude LiDAR Atmospheric Sensing) is a ground-based remotely-operated system that provides near-real-time atmospheric and weather data for specific regions and time periods of interest in as little as three minutes. This clear and timely data allows commercial and defense organizations to gather up-to-the minute information and predict mission conditions with much greater certainty.
The system works by sending out laser pulses, which get scattered by molecules into the atmosphere. The returning beams provide information that can be used to determine a range of atmospheric parameters. Measurements can be made at altitudes of over 100,000 feet, and the system currently delivers high-accuracy information on temperature, humidity and wind speed and direction. Additional capabilities to be added in the near future include aerosol measurement, optical turbulence, and gas sensing.
Applications of the HALAS weather data system include:
- Sub-, super- and hypersonic aircraft testing
- Space mission launches
- Precision air-drop operations
- Missile testing
- Directed energy weapon support
