Can radioactive sources be detected?
Radioactive sources can be detected and their movement monitored. The effective detection range depends on the amount and type of radiation emitted by the source and also on the possible presence of shielding materials that may reduce the amount of radiation that reaches the detector. Fortunately, the most intense and dangerous sources normally are the most susceptible to detection. Several types of advanced instruments already are in use for detecting radioactive materials. More advanced systems are under development that will be more sensitive, easier to use, or more capable of dentifying exactly what kind of radioactive materials are present.
