Atmospheric Systems Corporation (ASC)
is a California based business that was established for the design, manufacture, sales and use of surface based atmospheric remote sensing instruments and systems to monitor the atmospheric boundary layer parameters such as wind, turbulence and temperature profiles. ASC embodies the innovation, research, development, and years of production done by its original parent company, AeroVironment (AV) Inc, and Xontec Inc., from whom AeroVironment purchased the Xondar product rights. Below is a timeline that captures the progression of the company and milestones in its research approval of SoDAR technology.
ASC History
1972
AeroVironment designs the Acoustic Radar. This design laid the foundation for the high resolution Digital Facsimile display incorporated in the ASC products.1976
Xontec enters the world of SoDAR by designing a Bistatic SodDAR system. 1976
AeroVironment, with support from participants Melborne, designs a monostatic SoDAR which provided the basis for the modern day Model 2000.1979
The EPA invites both Xontec and AeroVironment to participate in an intercomparison. This study results measurable correlations and paves the way for another study in 1982. 1982
Xontec and AeroVironment participated in another intercomparison sponsored by the EPA again proving the technology. This study results in EPA sign off on SoDAR as an acceptable monitoring device that meets the EPA criteria.1982
Dr. Underwood, after completing his PhD on SoDAR and teaching at Florida State University, joins Xontec to work with the Xondar, Xontec’s existing SoDAR.1982
Dr. Underwood designs the revolutionary phased array antenna (this design has been implement in the ASC 3000 and 4000 products and mimicked by other SoDAR manufacturers). Dr. Underwood also designs the 1st PC based signal processor for the SoDAR application. 1988
Dr. Underwood joins Aerovironment Inc.1990
AeroVironment purchases the Xondar product lines (phased array and Bistatic) from Xontec.1990
NAVY SBIR project begins.1992
The miniSoDAR (Model 4000) product line is developed through the efforts of the SBIR grant resulting in a successful commercialization of the system.1994
Aerovironment sells the 1st Network of miniSoDARs (Model 4000 product line) systems to Berkley Network Labs for emergency response purposes. These units were in operation for over 12 years.1994
SodarPro and PADS data products are developed allowing for real-time data streaming and data storage in a database.1997
The 3000 Hz phased array SoDAR is completed (Model 3000)1998-9
The Range Standardization and Modernization program results in the sale of 14 systems (8 to Cape Canaveral and 6 to Vandenberg). This program requires a minimum 15 year enclosure lifetime resulting in the fiberglass enclosures still in use today. These enclosures provide a 20 year life expectancy. 2002
AeroVironment develops the 1st solar charged, battery powered SoDAR. This system is also made portable by mounting it on a trailer. 2003
SodarPro and PADS data products are developed allowing for real-time data streaming and data storage in a database.AeroVironment develops the acoustic refractive index for laser propagation studies. 2005
Atmopsheric Systems Corporation (ASC) is started when Dr. Underwood (Director at AV) purchases the SoDAR product lines and rights.2007
The WindExplorer is born. This self operated system utilizes both solar and generator power sources (as needed) while detecting rain, snow, and operating a heater. 2007
ASC develops a new signal processing system that allows for the implementation of an easy to use LCD interface.2008
ASC and Globalstar join forces to offer satellite data transmission of system data.2009
ASC and Digi International reach an agreement for ASC to provide Digi cellular products. 2009
Complete real-time diagnostics of the entire SoDAR including individual speaker monitoring is finished. This enables users to easily see all systems statuses from any where in the world. 2009
ASC widens its distribution network reaching agreements with companies in Australia, Argentina, Chile, and several locations within the United States. 2010
The new ASC logo is released to show a continued commitment to scientific excellence through providing high quality products with friendly customer support.
