Testing challenges for next generation radiological/nuclear detection

The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) has been tasked by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure the United States remains safe from attack by the illicit importation, development, or procurement of a nuclear or radiological device. One of the key challenges facing DNDO is a specific charge to characterize all technologies it is sponsoring prior to large-scale deployment. The purpose of the testing, ranging from product development to informing grant recipients in support of acquisition of deployable systems, and DNDO´s test approach, including involvement of partnering agencies, labs and various test beds, are described.