Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:29:37-2:30:52

What distinguished the Fresnel optical landing system

The Fresnel system put rapid, long-range approach feedback directly in the pilot's sightline rather than making the landing signal officer the sole controller.

Fleet CarriersLanding Signal OfficersNaval AviationOptical Landing System
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Question

How did the Fresnel landing system differ from other optical landing aids?

Short answer

Its reflected indication responded directly to the pilot's approach and supplied faster feedback at longer range than systems controlled primarily by a landing signal officer.

Notes

Earlier optical aids often depended directly on a landing signal officer, including the use of colored wands or paddles. The Fresnel arrangement gave a reflected indication that changed with the pilot's approach. The pilot could respond directly to that information. The distinction concerns the speed of feedback and how far away the indication could be used.