UM: Lasers

Scientific American reports on an innovative laser intended for warzone helicopters to prevent their detection by anti-aircraft weapons. Mohammed Islam, a laser and fiber-optics scientist at UM, and his colleagues are developing the technology. While lasers often emit only one type of wavelength, this laser radiates a much broader range of wavelengths, which is a key factor in its successful deflection of missiles. Islam estimates that laser prototypes will cost $100,000, compared to laser-based aircraft systems that run from roughly $1 million. [Source]