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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
Latest Magazine Issues
Jul 2026
Jan 2026
2026
Latest Journal Issues
Nuclear Science and Engineering
September 2026
Nuclear Technology
August 2026
Fusion Science and Technology
Latest News
The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
May 4–8, 2025
Powering Today’s Ambitions to Reach Tomorrow’s Realities
Huntsville, AL|Huntsville Marriott and the Space & Rocket Center
Thomas M. Brown Ph.D. NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center
Craig H. Piercy American Nuclear Society
Rae Ann Meyer NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center
Jason Turpin NASA's Space Nuclear Propulsion Project Office
Michael J. Barrett, Ph.D. NASA’s Glenn Research Center
Kurt Polzin, Ph.D. NASA's Space Nuclear Propulsion Office
Marsha McDanielIdaho National Laboratory
Les JohnsonNASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center
John M. Horack, Ph. D.Ohio State University
Travis Knight, Ph.D.University of South Carolina
L. Dale Thomas, Ph.D., P.E.University of Alabama in Huntsville
Koroush Shirvan, Ph.D.MIT
Davey Jones NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center
Joseph K. Miller BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC
Georgette Alexander-MorrisonX-energy Capture and Proposals
Christina A. Back, Ph.D.General Atomics Nuclear Technologies and Materials
Harsh S. DesaiZeno Power
NETS is the premier annual gathering of individuals from NASA, national laboratories, industry, and academia for discussions on space nuclear power and propulsion with an additional focus on new and emerging technologies to further space exploration capabilities.
Enhance your visibility at the NETS 2025 by becoming a sponsor. All sponsors are recognized on the meeting website and in promotional communications. All sponsors will also be acknowledged at the Opening Plenary and on signage displayed throughout the meeting. Sponsorship packages are limited, so reserve your sponsorship package early. Download the Prospectus
