Spectral Flavor of the Month: Spectroscopic challenges for technical experts

The science of spectrometry is well established but the method of doing the actual analysis can be varied based on instrumentation available and software used. This skill set is key across a range of applications in nuclear security – from an initial detection through material characterization. The Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration's Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence has developed a monthly round robin gamma spectrometry drill to hone and sustain the gamma spectrometry skills of their partner countries based only on their analytical skills.