RTX BBN Technologies has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to develop algorithms for long-range X-ray imaging under the X-ray Extreme-range Non-imaging Analysis (XENA) programme.
The research effort aims to create tools capable of reconstructing the hidden geometry of man-made objects from distances approaching one kilometre, potentially allowing operators to assess concealed threats or structures when direct access is limited or unsafe, according to the company.
Under the programme, BBN Technologies will develop mathematical modelling and image analysis techniques designed to extract useful detail from limited or low-quality X-ray data. The project will involve simulations, software development and testing intended to demonstrate how the system can identify key characteristics of objects despite incomplete or noisy data.
Joshua Fasching, principal investigator at BBN Technologies, said long-range X-ray imaging requires a different technical approach compared with conventional scanners.
“Long-range X-ray imaging requires a fundamentally different approach,” Fasching said.
“We are developing algorithms that turn a small number of grainy snapshots into enough detail for decision-makers to act, whether the mission is assessing potential threats or supporting emergency response operations.”
Traditional portable X-ray scanners typically require close proximity to produce clear images because signals weaken rapidly over distance and are affected by motion and limited viewing angles. According to the company, the XENA approach combines several low-quality views using shared patterns to reveal internal structures while relying on fewer X-ray photons.
The BBN-led team includes researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Work on the programme will be conducted in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Atlanta, Georgia.
According to the company, the research is intended to provide military and emergency response personnel with additional information about concealed hazards, weapons or structural vulnerabilities at distances beyond the reach of current portable X-ray systems.
