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Conference Spotlight
2026 ANS Annual Conference
May 31–June 3, 2026
Denver, CO|Sheraton Denver
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
May 2026
Nuclear Technology
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Fusion Science and Technology
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DTRA’s advancements in nuclear and radiological detection
A new, more complex nuclear age has begun. Echoing the tensions of the Cold War amid rapidly evolving nuclear and radiological threats, preparedness in the modern age is a contest of scientific innovation. The Research and Development Directorate (RD) at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is charged with winning this contest.
Technical Session|Panel|Panels
Friday, April 17, 2026|9:30–10:30AM CDT|MSC 2404
Session Chair:
Jacob Henry
Alternate Chair:
Vincent Su
Session Organizer:
Carlo Dal Colletto (TAMU)
This debate panel examines whether fusion energy is actually worth pursuing in the current moment, given the rapid expansion of advanced fission reactor technologies and the question of commercial viability. Panelists will argue competing positions on the readiness, feasibility, and opportunity cost of prioritizing fusion research and development. The audience should leave with a nuanced understanding of where fusion stands relative to fission as an energy solution.
John Ford
David Senor
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Tammy Ma
Director
Livermore Institute for Fusion Technology (LIFT)
Sara Eaves
Fusion Industry Association
Amanda Bye
Xcimer Energy Corp.
Deleah Lockridge
ITER
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