Tracing the Origins of Released Airborne Pathogens

Researchers at Purdue University in the US have written a computer program that can backtrack to the air release point of biological pathogens. It is equally effective for tracing biological agents as diverse as anthrax and pandemic flu released via a sneeze. Sensors installed inside an airliner's cabin are able to detect the presence of biological agents (germs) and, via a series of mathematical models, it can follow the path back to its origin. The theory has led to a verified concept of inverse simulation, a process of reverse engineering. Input data includes aircraft design airflow patterns, bio-concentrations and ambient temperature. The algorithms are presently computer time intensive and can take several days to reach a determination. However Purdue researchers are looking to reduce that to one day and also intend to hone the system such that it can instantly detect the release of a biological agent in an airliner. In an A380 the program may be invaluable for narrowing down both victims and terrorists, albeit at some stage after disembarkation of around 600+ passengers. Whether or not the technology is adopted may depend on whether security experts deem it easier to stop lethal agents being boarded as aerosols. However the ultimate aerosol container is a martyr infected with an aerosol deployable agent. Being a martyr, the terrorist wouldn't need to have the personal insulations of a Typhoid Mary.