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Cold War Radar

Introduction to SAGE

SAGE inputsoutputs.jpg

The various inputs and outputs taken on by SAGE

SAGE, or the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment was a computer system used by NORAD during the Cold War.

At the time of development, it was far ahead of its time and the cost reflected it.  It first used in the United States in 1958 and was in wide use by the early 1960s.  It continued to be used into the 1980s. 

SAGE changed the nature of radar by taking the information that was once plotted on tables, and presented it digitally.  People were still involved with the air defence system under SAGE though. 

In radar and air defence, speed and efficiency were important.  In the event of an attack, action would have to be taken quickly.  SAGE provided this, as the data could actually be worked in micro-seconds.

SAGE operational control.jpg

Chain of command under SAGE

Before SAGE, each Pinetree station was on its own.  The SAGE system also provided a way to link together various radar stations.  Under it, ten times more space was covered and it was all done a hundred times faster.

It provided a picture of each area every 15 seconds, keeping the information up to date.

While SAGE improved operations, not everything was compatible.  The Royal Canadian Air Force's CF-100 for example did not work with it, leading them to turn to a new interceptor and the Arrow controversy.

SAGE
Introduction to SAGE