As people walk through the scanner, the body’s own radiation lights up concealed objects which are seen as shadows, even through clothing
A SPACE age security scanner can spot danger without plane passengers having to take off their coats, belts and shoes.
The system, designed to study activity in galaxies far from Earth, is being trialled at Cardiff airport.
As people walk through the scanner the body’s own radiation lights up concealed objects. They are seen as shadows, even through clothing.
Scientists at Cardiff University say the technology, developed in the UK, should slash queuing times.
The 'Total Recall'-type scanner is being trialled privately by invitation only at Cardiff Airport between December 4 and 7.
Ken Wood of Sequestim, the joint venture between Cardiff University and QMC Instruments, said: "Passenger numbers are expected to double in 20 years, putting airport security facilities under immense pressure.
"Our system only needs a few seconds to do its work. Passengers walking normally through security would no longer need to take off coats and jackets, or remove personal items such as phones."
The project is one of eight to have received funding from £1.8 million made available by the Government through a defence and security accelerator competition.
Aviation minister Liz Sugg said: "We have a proud history of innovation here in the UK and passenger safety across all modes of transport remains an important priority for the Government."
