STEALTH TECHNOLOGY

Now that we understand how the CBL works with the motion detector we can explore some affect the capabilities to get as close as possible to the sonar station without being detected.

Connect the CBL to the calculator using the linking cable. Connect the motion detector to the SONIC port of the CBL. Run the program MOTION (MOTION.82p.hqx | MOTION.83p.hqx). Disconnect the CBL from the calculator. The CBL will make a clicking noise and the SONIC, READY, and FT indicators are on. The clicks are timed at one second intervals and the CBL will display the distance after each click. We are not using the CBL to record data, just to measure it.

Attach a piece of string about 40 feet long to the center of one side of a 10" x 10" x 10" box as shown below.

Find a smooth surface that has at least forty feet of space. Place the box on the floor and stretch the string perpendicular to the side of the box Place the motion detector at the end of the string so that it points to the box.

Run the program MOTION so that the CBL reports the distance The box should be outside the range of the motion detector. Stand behind the detector and slowly pull the box toward you using the string. When the CBL gives a reasonable distance, stop pulling the string. Use a tape measure to find the distance from the motion detector to the box. What is the furthest distance at which the detector gives an accurate reading?

Now it is time to try some stealth technology against the motion detector. Remove the string: from the side of the box and attach it to one edge as shown in below. Repeat the exploration. Is there any difference in the acquisition distance?

This experiment shows the basis of stealth technology. Researchers found the size of the aircraft meant nothing as far as avoiding detection was concerned. Instead, shape was the most important factor The F I 1 7A Stealth Fighter was composed of flat, angular surfaces resembling four faceted diamonds which reflected the radar waves away from it instead of back to the radar scope. In this way an object can become stealthy to radar It does not make the object invisible, but Stealth technology does make it much more difficult for radar to detect it.