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Sandia Technology logo A quarterly research and development magazine.

Winter 2006/2007
Volume 8, No. 4

SANDIA TECHNOLOGY

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Homeland Security chief dedicates new center

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff dedicated a new National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center (NISAC) at Sandia in September. Chertoff, members of the New Mexico congressional delegation, and other officials were briefed on NISAC’s technical contributions to the nation’s homeland security and saw demonstrations of several technologies.

ribbon cutting at NISAC
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and other officials dedicated the new National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center at Sandia in September
NISAC is a partnership between Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia under the DHS. It was established six years ago to integrate the laboratories’ expertise in modeling and simulation of complex systems to examine both natural and manmade infrastructure national security issues. These capabilities aid decision makers in preparedness, consequence and risk analysis, policy analysis, investment and mitigation planning, education and training, and provide near-real-time assistance to crisis-response organizations.

During the 2006 hurricane season, NISAC analyzed regions vulnerable to hurricane damage so that data on key population issues, impacts of infrastructure disruptions, and economic consequences could be quickly available to impacted communities in the event of an actual emergency.

NISAC is the first facility built at a DOE site using DHS funding and illustrates the increasing importance of Sandia’s nonnuclear research and development. DHS is currently working with priority projects, including radiological and nuclear countermeasures, explosives detection, chemical and biological sensors, and facility protection efforts.

Media Contact: Stephanie Holinka (505) 284-9227, slholin@sandia.gov
NISAC website: http://www.sandia.gov/mission/homeland/programs/critical/nisac.html