At the end of last month, the National Research Council (NRC) released a report warning that U.S. nuclear forensics capacity -- or the ability to determine the origin of material used in a nuclear explosion or for nuclear terrorism -- was dangerously eroding, despite renewed government efforts to bolster it.
"Although U.S. nuclear forensics capabilities are substantial and can be improved, right now they are fragile, under-resourced and, in some respects, deteriorating," the report concluded. "Without strong leadership, careful planning and additional funds, these capabilities will decline." The public document, entitled "Nuclear Forensics: A Capability at Risk,"
summarized a classified report conducted by a dozen eminent experts for the Departments of Defense, Energy, and Homeland Security ...