An Air Force Office of Scientific Research-sponsored group of researchers at the University of Michigan have invented a new type of magnetron that could lead to improved radar systems. According to Dr. Ron Gilgenbach at the university, “This invention should make it possible to develop more compact magnetrons that operate at higher power and higher frequencies.” He said the work exploited “some plasma physics principles … as well as an innovative, new geometry to overcome the physical limitations of conventional magnetrons.” (AFOSR report by Rebecca Rose)
The Air Force will begin its 71st annual Operation Christmas Drop on Dec. 4. The weeklong exercise is a yearly tradition that delivers supplies such as food, fishing equipment, school books, and clothes to remote islands in the Pacific. It is the longest-running Department of Defense humanitarian mission.