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Remote Sensing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst
OverviewThe University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally recognized leader in remote sensing and in novel areas of research that can be applied to improving sensing technology. Researchers are developing sensor networks that sample the atmosphere, sensor technology for early detection and response, and unique microwave and millimeter wave sensors. Though remote sensing is an historical strength of UMass Amherst, sensor research now spans a number of other areas, including chemical and biological sensors.
Key Research Thrusts
Research SupportIn 2005, more than $8 million in grants and contracts supported remote sensing research. Over $4.5 million of that was from the National Science Foundation*.
Microwave and Millimeter-Wave Sensor DevelopmentSince 1980, there have been more than 15 sensors developed in the MIRSL Lab. Click here to see the list. Centers & InstitutesCenter for Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA): In September 2003, UMass Amherst won a National Science Foundation grant to establish an Engineering Research Center for Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA ). CASA seeks to revolutionize the way we observe, detect, and predict atmospheric phenomena by creating distributed collaborative adaptive sensor networks that sample the atmosphere where and when end user needs are greatest. This $40 million center brings together a multidisciplinary group of engineers, computer scientists, meteorologists, sociologists, graduate and undergraduate students, and industry and government representatives to conduct fundamental research, develop enabling technology, and deploy prototype engineering systems based on a new paradigm: Distributed Collaborative Adaptive Sensing (DCAS). Academic partners include University of Oklahoma; Colorado State University; and the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez. Security, Emergency Preparedness and Response Institute (SEPRI): The Security, Emergency Preparedness and Response Institute (SEPRI) at UMass Amherst is developing sensor technology for early detection and response. Efforts to grow a cross-cutting program focused on development of systems for multi-threat detection, mitigation characterization and communication are based on the expertise the Amherst campus has in microbiology, organic chemistry, materials science, information science, communication networks and systems engineering. Key areas of concentration include:
Laboratory FacilitiesThe Microwave Remote Sensing Laboratory (MIRSL) has been developing a wide range of microwave sensors to remotely sense many different kinds of geophysical processes. MIRSL occupies more than 9,000 square feet of laboratory space for the development of advanced microwave and millimeter-wave radars, radiometers, and systems for the reduction of data gathered by these sensors. These laboratories contain the test equipment needed to develop sensors operating from HF to millimeter-wave frequencies as high as 225 GHz. To allow for the development of entire systems, the laboratories are equipped to fabricate low-frequency analog and digital circuits in addition to microwave front-end subsystems. Numerous computers and workstations are available to control sensor operation and to analyze data. Other Electrical and Computer Engineering Department labs used in remote sensing research:
MIRSL works closely with the Center for Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA). For more information on remote sensing facilities, search the campus' facilities database at www.umassrefs.info. Technology TransferFor licensing opportunities in Remote Sensing, contact the office of Commercial Ventures and Intellectual Property (CVIP) at (413) 545-3606.
*Source: UMass Office of Grants & Contracts Administration Updated 6/1/06
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