A Wyoming federal judge recently directed that interest groups be given greater access to technical documents about the Advanced Test Reactor at Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls (Oct. 11 Billings Gazette). News of the judicial action has prompted some to revisit their questions about the safety and propriety of continued operation of the reactor. As laboratory director and the person responsible for this uniquely capable scientific resource and its service in support of our national interests, I welcome this opportunity to add to the renewed public dialogue about the Advanced Test Reactor.

Modern industrial technologies like nuclear reactors involve hazards and risks. Consider our country's oil refineries, chemical plants and other products of science and engineering that contribute to modern society. The possibility of errors or accidents associated with these technologies can never be reduced to zero. However, the probability can be reduced to a point where such occurrences are so unlikely, so improbable, that we as a society choose to accept these risks because of the benefits.

The benefits of operating the Advanced Test Reactor are many. Because of this reactor, the U.S. Navy is able to continuously improve the operating efficiency of its fleet of nuclear surface ships and submarines. Because this reactor is a national scientific user facility, the best and brightest young minds from our nation's research universities are able to come here to conduct studies on new, more "fuel efficient" nuclear power systems and ways to make the global fleet of current-generation reactors even safer and more efficient. The core of this reactor is roughly the same height and about twice the diameter of your home water heater and operates at a comparable temperature and pressure.

Cancer treatment

Because of the ongoing operation of the Advanced Test Reactor, there is continued availability of key medical and industrial isotopes. For example, the Advanced Test Reactor provides cobalt-60 used by neurosurgeons treating otherwise inoperable deep brain cancers or vascular deformities. This reactor is the only one in the U.S. able to irradiate enough cobalt for the 12,000 to 18,000 "gamma knife" procedures performed annually. The Advanced Test Reactor has the capability of producing other radioisotopes for use in clinical trials to treat lung, breast, prostate, ovarian and pancreatic cancers.

To assure the reactor's continued ability to safely carry out its essential work, it is monitored and maintained with rigor. The reactor design itself provides for predictable, reliable operation irrespective of "calendar" age. A key feature is the ability to completely replace the major internal components of the reactor, which is done every eight to 10 years. The latest such "overhaul" was completed in 2005. This is supplemented by a disciplined inspection program.

Reactor tours

The Advanced Test Reactor is, without question, one of the most capable test reactors in the world. We welcome every opportunity we get to inform the public about its innovative design, operating record and the vital service it provides to our nation. In the spirit of openness, we bring in more than 1,000 people each year to tour the reactor and accept dozens of speaking engagements to meet with groups across the region to answer questions and provide reassurance of our uncompromising commitment to the safe, beneficial operation of America's Advanced Test Reactor.

Vice Admiral John J. Grossenbacher (retired) is president of Battelle Energy Alliance and laboratory director of Idaho National Laboratory. For more information on tours, speakers or INL operations, visit www.inl.gov.