Molecular Optical Air Data System (MOADS)
Program Directive
To develop an optical air data system that provides all air
data products for manned and unmanned aircraft.
MOADS Description
MOADS is an optical air data system that incorporates Michigan Aerospace
Corporation's LIDAR technology to detect the atmosphere using both aerosol and
molecular components of the scattered return signal. MOADS is a replacement for current pitot tube technology and incorporates a flush-mount design that does not protrude from the aircraft skin.
MOADS can operate solely on molecular scattering of the atmosphere
to provide all air data products. Aerosols, if present, are also utilized
but are not required. MOADS operates in the ultraviolet at 266nm, invisible
to the human eye. This wavelength provides a high degree of molecular
backscatter, but does not penetrate far due to ozone absorption.
MOADS Advantages
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Flush-mount design
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Low maintenance
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Self calibrating
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Only requires molecular scattering (but takes advantage
of aerosol scattering, if present)
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Detects true atmospheric conditions outside of the aircraft's
turbulent flow field
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All air data products provided with one instrument
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Accurate for highly maneuverable aircraft as well as hoverable
aircraft
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Operates at high angles of attack (in the proper configuration,
MOADS can continue to measure air data products at angles of attack
of 90 degrees) - unlike pitot tubes
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Airframe independent
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Tri-service commonality
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Reduced Life Cycle Cost
Other applications
of this technology include wind shear, wake vortex, clear air turbulence,
and engine unstart conditions.
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