Enhanced Data Analysis for an Imaging Neutron/Gamma-Ray Spectrometer

The ability to detect the presence of radioactive sources and Special Nuclear Materials (SNM) is of extreme importance for homeland security efforts. Today, we face terrorist threats in the form of explosive nuclear devices and Radiation Dispersal Devices (RDDs). The ability to remotely locate and identify the materials used to create these devices is imperative in the interdiction of terrorist threats. The Neutron SPECTrometer (NSPECT) developed by Michigan Aerospace Corporation and the University of New Hampshire is a dual-species instrument that detects both neutrons and gamma rays emitted from SNM, and gamma rays emitted from radioactive material. NSPECT provides spectroscopic information on the radioactive and fissile sources present while simultaneously imaging the sources within the instrumental field of view for enhanced detection capabilities. Creation and application of a detailed instrument response function through numerical simulations, analytical descriptions, and real NSPECT data provides the most detailed information on the detected neutrons and gamma rays, thereby allowing for the most sensitive and reliable detection of nuclear and radioactive threats.