Backscatter Imaging for Precision Agriculture

This invention describes a system that uses a focused beam of penetrating radiation, like X-rays, to scan living plants directly in the field. By detecting the scattered radiation, the system can determine various plant characteristics such as water content, root and branch structures, fruit size and maturity, and even ground water content. The system specifically uses an X-ray source that emits a pencil beam, a robotic device to move the beam across the plants, and a detector to capture the scattered X-rays.