International Effort Simulates Radiological Incident in Michigan
In March 2025, a large-scale radiological incident exercise, known as Cobalt Magnet 25, took place in Michigan, drawing participation from over 3,000 individuals across more than 70 agencies from the U.S. and Canada, including the Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS). The U.S. Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) spearheaded this initiative as part of ongoing efforts to ensure readiness for radiological emergencies.
The scenario involved a simulated radiation release at the fictional Erie Nuclear Power Plant, allowing various agencies to test their collaborative response capabilities effectively.
A significant role was played by the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST) of the NNSA. This included the NNSS Remote Sensing Laboratory’s (RSL) Aerial Measuring System (AMS), which performed crucial radiological monitoring and advisory functions for decision-makers across different government levels. The AMS team executed nearly a dozen aerial missions using both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters over the simulated affected zone.
Moreover, the RSL’s Consequence Management Home Team and Response Team (CMRT) were mobilized to support the exercise, handling over 60 requests to evaluate the potential radiation release impacts on the public and environment. Under the leadership of RaJah Mena, CMRT organized and deployed numerous field teams to gather simulated dose rate, contamination data, and environmental samples. This information, combined with AMS’s aerial data, was essential for exercise planners to make informed decisions.
“Exercises of this magnitude allow us to test and explore our capabilities and capacity in ways that cannot be achieved with more local-focused drills,” stated Mena. “Cobalt Magnets give our responders an opportunity to gain experience in their duty positions and work with their partners and peers throughout the radiological/nuclear response community.”
Mena also noted that the insights gained from Cobalt Magnet 25 will be crucial in shaping future funding and policy strategies.
The exercise also included participation from NEST’s Radiological Assistance Program, Incident Management Team, Nuclear Incident Team, and Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site Team. Cobalt Magnet 25 marked the third installment in this series of exercises, culminating 18 months of detailed planning by responders at various governmental levels.
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