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PROMORC 2026 includes two main components: a theoretical section that improves methods for identifying and characterizing lost gamma-ray sources (milestone 1 - 3), and an experimental section (milestone 4) that assesses the effectiveness of these methods in real-world applications.
Proposed Milestones for PROMORC 2026:
1. Our goal is to enhance detection sensitivity through advanced frequency analysis methods. Developing MGSSA's analysis components will improve graphical presentation and implement "shape background subtraction”. An automatic peak search feature will identify artificial sources and present results clearly.
Frequency analysis has not been widely applied in radiation source detection, but Lund University identified its potential during REALMORC 2023-24. This project will be advanced in collaboration with ongoing doctoral research in mobile gamma spectrometry.
2. Initial attempt to develop methods to identify contributions from multiple shielded and unshielded radiation sources that give an interfering contribution in mobile gamma spectra. Bayesian analysis may be a possible way forward. Lund University primarily conducts this work in conjunction with ongoing doctoral projects in mobile gamma spectrometry.
The primary goal is to locate lost radioactive sources in confined areas, such as industrial districts, particularly after events like bombing or fire that may compromise their shielding. Due to the risks of unexploded ordnance and ionizing radiation, initial measurements should be taken from a safe distance. At this range, varying levels of radiation activity can create complex patterns in mobile gamma spectra, complicating interpretation. This study could also experimentally align with the RADNORD 2026 project proposed to NKS by Lund University.
3. Develop a method for mobile gamma spectrometric A/B analyses that can detect small changes in a previously known radiation environment.
This study uses a modified A/B method (Young, 2014) tailored for potential threat situations. It compares a mobile survey conducted in a potential threat area (variation) with a mapped radiation landscape (control) to identify small changes in radiation levels that may indicate illegal sources. These changes could involve different radionuclides, locations, or shielding variations.
4. Conduct a joint Nordic experiment in 2026 with mobile gamma spectrometric searching in a realistic environment. Lund University will design experiments to test the function and usability of the methods described in points 1–3 in real-world conditions. (All Nordic teams participate; Lund University coordinates.)These experiments are crucial for evaluating methods, software, and the impact of measuring instruments' placements in vehicles on results. After each measurement round, the offline MGSSA software will be available for on-site use and expert analysis, with all participants receiving a copy.
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NKS-B 