Current work could pave the way for wireless networks that are self-contained, highly mobile and quickly deployable in areas that have no functioning communication infrastructure. One specialty of Clemson’s research group is spread-spectrum communications that makes the signal more difficult to detect by an unauthorized receiver, reduces vulnerability to jamming and accommodates multiple signals in the same frequency band

Working under a nearly $10 million award from the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, a Clemson-led consortium is developing next-generation radar-surveillance “blimps.” The structures, known as aerostats, are essentially long-term mobile airborne radar installations. Defense officials say they may be the military’s best option for detecting incoming cruise missiles.

Researchers, led by Clemson Apparel Research, will find ways to make the aerostat’s cloth “skin” — a combination of high-performance materials — lighter, more durable and less affected by environmental concerns such as ultraviolet light, weather and acid rain.

The Composite Manufacturing Technology Center, a joint venture between Clemson and the S.C. Research Authority, is conducting research funded by a five-year $120 million contract from the U.S. Navy. The center is building an ultralight but strong floating dock. Its modular components lock together to create a loading area the size of a football field available when and where the Navy needs it.

Other projects in the works: Thermoelectrics could improve night-vision goggles. Chameleon fibers that change color on demand could be used on aircraft and tanks. An artificial “muscle” may lead to smaller and more agile spy drones. “Smart skin,” layers of nanocomposites, may be able to scatter radar. Bandages with absorbable tissue adhesive “glue” could be applied by the soldier in the field.From troops to teachers.

While researchers work on projects to help military in active duty, Clemson’s Eugene T. Moore School of Education is looking to tap into the veterans’ expertise once their duty is complete and they’re ready to transition back into civilian life.

South Carolina educators realize that military-trained men and women can become highly qualified, motivated, disciplined teachers to help fill the teacher shortage in critical subject areas. They can also bring international experience to the classroom. The state is building on a national program, Troops-to-Teachers, that points soldiers toward teaching careers after they leave the military.

Headquartered at Clemson, the state’s program is coordinated by the S.C. T3 Coalition. The coalition — a collaboration of four S.C. universities, five state agencies, and IBM/Lotus — has developed the T3 Alternative Route to Teacher Certification, a state-approved program that prepares former troops for teacher certification.

The goal is to provide advisement, course work, training and field experience that will lead to certification and job placement. The plan also calls for support and follow-up to help military men and women ease into teaching.

The program is directed at commissioned and noncommissioned officers who already have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 10 college courses in a subject taught at the middle or secondary school level.

Participants complete a series of Web-based teacher-preparation courses designed specifically for military personnel, obtain South Carolina teacher credentials and make an easy transition from military service to the world of public education.

The program allows military personnel to jump-start their teaching career wherever they’re stationed. By the time they leave military service, they’ll be ready to step into the classroom.

For more information on Transition to Teaching, contact Nancy Cassity Dunlap, project leader, at (864) 656-6575. You can also email ttt3@clemson.edu or visit on the Web at www.hehd.clemson.edu/TTT.

Called to duty

Many Clemson people have been called to duty over the past year. Some have given us photos to share with Clemson friends.

You can find these photos and others online at the Alumni site.