The National Academies will examine the nation's nuclear forensics capabilities and provide findings and recommendations to sustain and improve them. This study will specifically examine the national and international dimensions of the following two issues: 1. Long- and short-term needs for U.S. nuclear forensics capabilities for attributing sources of: -Interdicted nuclear-explosive materials; -Interdicted stolen nuclear weapons or components, and improvised nuclear devices or components; and -Nuclear-explosive materials, and related weapons, devices or components used in attacks. 2. Recommendations for improving and sustaining the nation's nuclear forensic capabilities, including technical, infrastructure, and human resource elements, and international collaboration, cooperation and information sharing. Although the focus of this study is on nuclear explosives, it will include related capabilities in radiological forensics, identifying which of the recommendations will also improve and sustain the nation’s ability to carry out forensics on radioactive material other than nuclear-explosives.Sponsors supporting this project: Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security AdministrationOther agencies supporting project:Department of Homeland SecurityDepartment of Defense, Defense Threat Reduction AgencyThe study will produce a final classified report for administration and congressional audiences approximately 18 months after the project start date and a public report for unrestricted release approximately three months later. The project started on 12/01/2007.Update 2/16/10: The project duration has been extended. The public report is expected to be issued in the Spring of 2010.