It was previously mentioned that Sky Harbor International Airport will be testing out a new federal screening system that takes X-rays of passenger's bodies to detect concealed explosives and other weapons. This new system was put into its first operational use on Friday at Sky Harbor International Airport and could be rolled out to two other major airports by year's end.
The so-called "backscatter" technology has been controversial, with critics saying the high-resolution images are too invasive. But the Transportation Security Administration adjusted the machine's images so the normally graphic pictures can be blurred in certain areas while still being effective at detecting concealed weapons or other threats.
During the pilot program, the machine will be used only as a secondary screening measure; passengers who fail the standard screening process will be able to choose between the new device or a typical pat-down search.
"It's 100 percent voluntary, so if the passenger doesn't feel comfortable with it the passenger doesn't have to go through it," Melendez, an agency spokesman said.
Video after the jump.
Video: MSNBC
Source: MSNBC
Tags: Backscatter | X-Ray | Sky Harbor International Airport
Comments
The UK government are planning on installing these cameras in street lamposts!
See this BBC report.
I've had to take to lining my underpants with tin-foil.
Personally I think this technology could be a Force For Good in the right hands.
Marvin The Magnificent
However, too much electromagnetic radiation wouldn't be good for health either!
Marvin The Magnificent