Rain and Fog Sensors Based on Frustrated Total Internal Reflection

Accurate and reliable detection of rain and fog is critical for many industries, where environmental sensing directly impacts safety, navigation, and operational efficiency. Traditional sensors often face limitations in sensitivity, durability, and adaptability to harsh conditions, necessitating innovative solutions. The work is devoted to the development of optical-electronic sensors of rain and fog for use in aerospace technologies. A review of various types of such sensors is presented and analyzed. Conclusions are drawn about the optimal designs of the developed sensors. A sensor scheme based on the phenomenon of frustrated total internal reflection is described, which enables the creation of a simple, robust, yet sensitive device.