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Polar Bears Near Town? AI Radar Sounds Alarm
3 Jan
Summary
- A new radar system called 'bear-dar' detects moving objects.
- Bear-dar can alert communities via text, email, or lights.
- The technology costs approximately $60,000 for a base model.
A new radar technology, named "bear-dar," is being developed to enhance safety in polar bear habitats by providing early warnings of approaching animals. This system, a collaboration between Polar Bears International and military technology firm Spotter Global, utilizes fixed radar to survey landscapes and detect movement.
Utilizing artificial intelligence, bear-dar is trained to identify polar bears, differentiating them from other wildlife. Upon detection, it can remotely alert communities through text messages, emails, or flashing lights, and can also trigger soft deterrents like strobe lights or noises to ward off bears without harm.
This innovative technology was recently installed at the Eureka weather station in Nunavut, Canada, where staff face increased polar bear presence. Communities in Svalbard, Norway, are also planning trials this winter. While the base model costs around $60,000, its potential to safeguard lives in areas where climate change is increasing polar bear encounters is significant.
