A.S.P.E.C.T. Airplane Tours + AUM

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) will fly the Airborne Spectral Photometric Environmental Collection Technology (ASPECT) airplane over abandoned uranium mines (AUMs) in Western Navajo Nation between June 25 and July 7. This area includes Leupp, Coalmine Canyon, and Broadway/Gap Chapters.

What is ASPECT?

The ASPECT airplane uses state-of-the-art sensors to measure radiation levels on the ground by flying back and forth at elevations as low as 500 feet. The ASPECT airplane also uses high-resolution digital camera to collect aerial images of areas flown. This technology will provide images showing radiation levels at former mining areas. USEPA and the Navajo Nation will use this information to better understand the location and size of areas that may have radiation at levels of concern.

What Will Happen After the Flyovers?

Using radiological data collected from the ASPECT airplane, USEPA will:

• Create maps using the radiological data of areas flown;
• share data with the public in community forums;
• post written report on USEPA website; and
• identify areas that require additional ground investigation by USEPA and the NNEPA

Meet the Flight Team and Learn More

An event will be held on June 30, 2018 at Tuba City Landing Strip that will allow the community/public to meet the flight team and learn about the technology. USEPA and NNEPA will have information regarding AUM work. Communities are invited to learn, listen and ask questions concerning the current and future of AUM assessment and cleanup work. (see Calendar for Event Details)