Part 6/12:
LiDAR works by emitting laser pulses that bounce off air molecules, measuring their movement and density to identify turbulent zones ahead. If implemented successfully, it could revolutionize turbulence detection, boosting safety by giving pilots advanced warning of dangerous conditions.
Challenges to Deployment
Despite its potential, several hurdles remain:
Power and size requirements: High-powered lasers needed for detection are bulky and costly.
Operational constraints: Effectiveness diminishes at higher altitudes where air molecules are less dense, and the system's weight adds to aircraft fuel consumption.
Regulatory approval: Updating aircraft systems requires rigorous testing and certification, potentially taking years.