NASA Develops Life-Saving Device to Detect Trapped Victims Under Debris

NASA, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, has developed an advanced device capable of detecting even the slightest movement of people trapped beneath debris after disasters like earthquakes. This groundbreaking technology is specifically designed to locate survivors buried under rubble following building collapses or natural calamities.

The device, known as “FINDER” (Finding Individuals for Disaster and Emergency Response), uses microwave radar sensors to detect subtle movements such as a person’s breathing and heartbeat, even if they are hidden deep under concrete or snow. Its highly sensitive technology allows rescue teams to identify live victims from a distance, without needing to dig first.

FINDER has already proven its effectiveness during the devastating 2023 earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, where it helped rescue workers locate and save people who were buried under collapsed buildings. By identifying the faintest signs of life, the device gave emergency responders a huge advantage in their life-saving missions.

NASA began working on this technology after the 2010 Haiti earthquake, which caused massive destruction and loss of life. The urgent need for faster and more accurate search-and-rescue tools inspired NASA scientists to develop this radar-based solution. Over time, the technology was refined and later made available for commercial use in emergency situations worldwide.

During the Turkey-Syria disaster, NASA also directed its Earth-observing satellites to capture images of the affected areas. These satellite visuals helped assess the scale of damage and guided rescue operations by showing which regions needed urgent attention.

Moreover, another NASA device known as EMIT, which is installed on the International Space Station, has been used in past emergencies. This instrument analyzes dust and gases in Earth’s atmosphere and helps detect gas leaks that might pose hidden dangers after disasters.

NASA’s satellite data can also be used to monitor aftershocks that often follow major earthquakes. This capability helps scientists predict potential risks and warn authorities to take preventive action.

This technological collaboration between NASA and U.S. emergency departments showcases how science and innovation can save lives during catastrophic events. Devices like FINDER are a powerful example of how modern tools can play a crucial role in humanitarian aid and disaster management.