Zahlavi

The NPI cooperates with the Czech Armed Forces

17. 03. 2026

The Nuclear Physics Institute is working with the Czech Armed Forces to take direct measurements of ionising radiation on board Airbus A319CJ transport aircraft. As part of this collaboration, led by the Radiation Dosimetry Group (ODZ), the Institute has provided the military with AIRDOS04 onboard dosimeter and will ensure the expert evaluation of the measured data. This collaboration was reported by the military fortnightly A-Report.

The project builds on the Czech Armed Forces' activities within the NATO MILSWx panel. It was here that the idea emerged to transition from model calculations to real in-flight measurements. The project also has an international dimension, helping to validate radiation models used within NATO. The measured data will be shared within alliance structures and contribute to operational safety.

These measurements are important because space weather, particularly solar activity, can significantly impact technology and human health. At high altitudes, the protective effect of the atmosphere weakens, increasing exposure to cosmic radiation. This can disrupt onboard electronics, communication systems and navigation systems, while also posing a health risk to flight personnel. European regulations therefore set exposure limits and require monitoring. Under Czech legislation, aircraft cabins above 8,000 metres are classified as workplaces with increased radiation exposure.

Photo: Jan Kouba

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