Abstract: A variable-geometry backscatter inspection system has a radiation detector array including one or more backscatter radiation detectors. The position of a second backscatter radiation detector is variable with respect to the position of a first backscatter radiation detector, so that the size of the detector array may be varied by moving the second radiation detector into or out of a predefined alignment with the first radiation detector. The system may include a movable base, and at least one of the detectors is movable with respect to the base. Methods of inspecting an object include forming a detector array by moving a second radiation detector into a predefined alignment with a first radiation detector, illuminating the object with a pencil beam of penetrating radiation, and detecting backscattered radiation with the detector array.

Abstract: A variable-geometry backscatter inspection system has a radiation detector array including one or more backscatter radiation detectors. The position of a second backscatter radiation detector is variable with respect to the position of a first backscatter radiation detector, so that the size of the detector array may be varied by moving the second radiation detector into or out of a predefined alignment with the first radiation detector. The system may include a movable base, and at least one of the detectors is movable with respect to the base. Methods of inspecting an object include forming a detector array by moving a second radiation detector into a predefined alignment with a first radiation detector, illuminating the object with a pencil beam of penetrating radiation, and detecting backscattered radiation with the detector array.

Abstract: Systems and methods for inspecting an object with a scanned beam of penetrating radiation are disclosed. Scattered radiation from the beam is detected, in either the backward or forward direction. Characteristic values of the backscattered radiation are compared to expected reference values to characterize the object. Additionally, penetrating radiation transmitted through the inspected object may be combined with scatter information. In certain embodiments, the inspected field of view is less than 0.1 steradians, and the detector is separate from the source of penetrating radiation and is disposed, with respect to the object, such as to subtend greater than 0.5 steradians in the field of view of the object.