Aerial measuring system in Japan.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Nuclear Safety
• Aviation Operations

Background:

• The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant disaster necessitated rapid environmental monitoring.
• International cooperation was crucial for assessing the radiological impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the deployment and operational challenges of the Aerial Measuring System (AMS) in Japan.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of AMS in providing radiological data during a nuclear crisis.
• To explore the expansion of AMS capabilities beyond U.S. borders.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of AMS personnel and equipment in partnership with U.S. Forces in Japan (USFJ).
• Conducting aerial radiological surveys using multiple USFJ aircraft over challenging terrain.
• Integrating data collection and product delivery with Japanese government agencies.

Main Results:

• AMS provided the first comprehensive radiological data for U.S. interests and confirmed the extent of the Fukushima Daiichi release to Japan.
• Overcame significant operational challenges within the first 48 hours, including equipment integration and unfamiliar flight environments.
• Successfully adapted to ongoing releases and complex intergovernmental data sharing requirements.

Conclusions:

• The Fukushima response highlighted the AMS's capability to operate in complex international environments.
• The mission demonstrated the potential for expanding the AMS's operational scope internationally.
• Effective interagency and international collaboration is vital for nuclear incident response and data dissemination.