Paragon Research PRC-5000 Sensor Array

The Alaska Project, developed for the US Army and Army Materiel Command, represents an innovative approach to addressing a unique environmental challenge in military testing. Alaska's vast, uninhabited regions and extensive permafrost coverage make it ideal for testing missiles and large- caliber weapons. However, this testing has led to an unexpected and dangerous consequence: the penetration of permafrost by test firings, causing underground wildfires that threaten Alaska's forest industry and delicate ecosystem. To combat this issue, Paragon Research has developed a cutting- edge sensor suite based on its RapidSense® technology, known as the PRC CS5000™. This system, designed to a Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL-7), demonstrates a prototype in an operational environment specifically tailored to Alaska's harsh Arctic conditions. The core of the Alaska Project lies in its ability to detect fires early through sophisticated chemical signature analysis, potentially stopping wildfires before they can spread and cause significant damage. The system's architecture is built around independently operating sensor nodes strategically placed to eliminate single-point failures and provide comprehensive coverage across key testing areas. These nodes feed real-time data into a GIS-based information system, allowing for precisely locating potential fire sites. This data is further enhanced by high-fidelity agent plume modeling, which helps predict fire spread and guides response efforts. Flexibility and adaptability are key features of the Alaska Project. The system explores UAV deployment options for extended coverage and rapid response while integrating with hand-held devices to provide enhanced 24/7 operational situational awareness. This mobile capability is supported by a robust communication network that utilizes multiple platforms, including 3G/4G, WiFi, WiMAX, and Satcom, ensuring reliable connectivity even in remote areas. The advantages of the Alaska Project are manifold. Focusing on proactive fire prevention rather than reactive firefighting protects Alaska's valuable forest industry and ecosystem and enhances the safety of military testing operations. The system's real-time monitoring and data analysis capabilities give firefighting teams unprecedented situational awareness, allowing for more efficient and effective response strategies. Perhaps most importantly, the Alaska Project represents a critical balance between military needs and environmental protection. Its potential applications extend beyond Alaska, offering a model for fire prevention in other permafrost regions globally. As climate change continues to impact Arctic environments, systems like this may become increasingly vital in protecting sensitive ecosystems while supporting necessary military and industrial activities. The Alaska Project is a testament to Paragon's innovative problem-solving in the face of complex environmental challenges. By leveraging advanced sensor technology, real-time data analysis, and flexible deployment options, it offers a comprehensive solution to a unique problem, potentially saving vast tracts of Alaskan forest while enabling crucial military testing to continue safely.