Immigration Laser Tool Evokes Science Fiction
Border Patrol Agents Use High Technology at U.S.-Mexico Border
Oct 1, 2008
In early September, the University of Arizona campus became home to a new brand of research facility. The National Center for Border Security and Immigration Research will receive $16 million in funding over the next six years from the Department of Homeland Security.
In part, the focus of the Tucson-based facility will be to develop sensor networks, data fusion and surveillance technologies aimed at easing strain on an understaffed border patrol agency.
Detecting Stress May Lead to Apprehending Smugglers
Of the wide variety of technologies currently being tested at the UA Center, the laser Doppler vibrometer leans closest to something out of a science fiction novel. The device employs a laser beam, to be trained on the cartoid arteries of border crossers in an attempt to read blood pressure and detect high stress levels in potential drug smugglers.
Jay Nunamaker, director of the new research center, told the Arizona Daily Star last month that researchers are still struggling with the fundamental features of the vibrometer. Discovering ways to make the laser beams invisible and how to get accurate readings on people whose necks are covered by clothing or facial hair, for instance, are some of the issues facing scientists at the center.
The research has gained support from both anti-immigration activists and left-wing policymakers such as Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., who recently told reporters,"I am so proud that the UA was selected as a co-lead for this center because we are on the front lines." The new research facility on the UA campus is approximately 50 miles north of the Arizona-Mexico border.
Immigration a Social Problem or a National Security Issue?
The connection between national security and immigration via the U.S.-Mexico border is arguably a dubious one. In a 2006 article published by the Center for Immigration Studies, Dr. James Edwards of the Hudson Institute admitted as much, saying, "Since most illegal aliens present little national security risk, allowing their continued presence amidst continually building pressure and increasing likelihood of being caught will effect a gradual decrease of the illegal alien population by attrition, with little danger."
The link between illegal immigration and national security was effectively solidified in March of 2003, however, when the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service was absorbed by the Department of Homeland Security. Since then, the DHS has adopted several new strategies for curbing illegal immigration, especially at the U.S.-Mexico border.
The development of new technologies at the National Center for Border Security is part of the DHS Secure Border Initiative.
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