Philip W. Krey

Atmospheric Burnup of the Cosmos-954 Reactor

On 24 January 1978 the Russian satellite Cosmos-954 reentered the atmosphere over northern Canada. By use of high-altitude balloons, the atmosphere was sampled during 1978 up to an altitude of 39 kilometers to detect particulate debris from the reactor on board the satellite. Enriched uranium-bearing aerosols at concentrations and particle sizes compatible with partial burnup of the Cosmos-954 reactor were detected only in the high polar stratosphere.

Wide-area aquatic sampling and analysis for the detection of nuclear proliferation

Nuclear proliferation signature radionuclides can be delivered to the aquatic environs via direct liquid discharges or atmospheric routes. The candidate radionuclides for detection are 3H, 90Sr, 95Nb, 95Zr, 99Tc, 106Ru, 125Sb, 129I, 134Cs, 137Cs, 144Ce, 147Pm, NatU, 238U, 235U, 237Np, 239Pu, 240Pu, and 241Pu. The criteria for detection are the limits of radionuclide analysis, the nature and variability of background oncentrations, and the transport characteristics between the source and sample site. The type of sample to be taken is determined by the signature radionuclides sorption on/in the media sampled. Non-sorbing radionuclides such as 3H, 99Tc, and 129I are in the water, whereas the Pu radionuclides are in the transported sediments. Results are discussed for monthly releases of radionuclides such as 90Sr, 137Cs, and 239Pu for variable flow-rate conditions with typical backgrounds and typical detection limits.

Screening of potential sites for undeclared nuclear facilities in environmental monitoring for nuclear proliferation

The sensitivity of environmental sampling and analysis for the estimated atmospheric concentrations of radionuclides in effluents from clandestine nuclear facilities may require many sampling sites and exorbitant costs to monitor such large areas. An assessment has been made of the key factors necessary to support the operation of a nuclear facility, e.g., the existence of a nearby transportation network, main electrical power supply, and population centers. Screening, the subject of this paper, evaluates how cartographic data and satellite imagery can be used to identify areas most capable of supporting undeclared nuclear operations. As a result, large geographical areas can be eliminated from environmental monitoring and sampling. This leads to reduced costs, a reduction in the number of sampling sites required, and a reduction in the overall level of effort required to accomplish effective environmental monitoring. The screening methodology and techniques are described and examples given.

Nuclear Power in Space

MF01/PCO2 Plus Postage. *Aerospace Technology; College Science; Higher Education; *Nuclear Energy; *Nuclear Technology; Radioisotopes; Safety; *Satellites (Aerospace); Science Education; *Space Exploration; Space Sciences; *Technological Advancement; Technology Transfer Research has shown that nuclear radioisotope power generators can supply compact, reliable, and efficient sources of energy for a broad range of space missions. These missions range from televising views of planetary surfaces to communicating scientific data to Earth. This publication presents many applications of the advancing technology and commemorates three important milestones in space technology research: (1) the emplacement of the Apollo Lunar Surface Experiments Package on the Moon in November 1969; (2) the first demonstration of nuclear power for space in January 1959; and (3) The Atomic Energy Act of 1954: as amended, that encouraged applications for nuclear energy in a broad range of scientific endeavors, including exploration of space. Spacecraft propulsion had contributions originating from a number of countries. The log of space flights began in November 1957 with the first artificial satellite, Sputnik-1. Presently the total number of satellites has grown to more than 1,693 and a primary vehicle for launching a variety of spacecraft and satellites for research and communications purposes is being provided by the United States Space Shuttle Program. Topics of information include: space power systems and types; key events; space exploration milestones; future planetary missions and generating systems; isotope power systems; and aerospace safety. (RT) 3000000000000000000000000000000000000000:3000080000000000000000000800EXX X Reproductic,ns supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made * * from the original document. * 30000000000000000000000000000000000000(30000600000000000000000000000000a