The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) is responsible for addressing the threat of nuclear smuggling. Radiation detection portal monitors are key elements in the nation's defenses against such threats. DNDO has sponsored testing to develop new monitors, known as advanced spectroscopic portal (ASP) monitors, to replace radiation detection equipment now being used. ASPs offer improvements over current portal monitors, particularly the potential to identify as well as detect radioactive material and thereby to reduce both the risk of missed threats and the rate of innocent alarms. This testimony addresses: (1) findings on DNDO's latest round of ASP testing; and (2) lessons from ASP testing that can be applied to other technology invest.
The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) is responsible for addressing the threat of nuclear smuggling. Radiation detection portal monitors are key elements in the nation's defenses against such threats. DNDO has sponsored testing to develop new monitors, known as advanced spectroscopic porta...