The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) is set to conduct aerial radiation assessment surveys over New Orleans and nearby areas from February 2 to February 6. This initiative is part of the preparations for the Super Bowl scheduled on February 9.

NNSA's Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST) will utilize its Aerial Measuring System aircraft to measure expected background radiation levels, aiming to ensure public health and safety during the event. According to NNSA, "These aerial radiation assessment surveys are a normal and routine part of security and emergency preparedness activities."

Residents may observe a Leonardo AW-139 helicopter equipped with radiation sensing technology flying at low altitudes during daylight hours only. The administration reassures the public that these flights are standard procedures, stating, "AMS conducted nearly 1,000 flight hours on these surveys in 2024, and has safely performed this mission for over 65 years."

NNSA aims to inform the community about these operations so that sightings of low-flying helicopters do not cause concern. NEST plays a critical role in the nation's nuclear and radiological emergency response efforts.

For further details and video footage of NNSA’s Aerial Measuring System, interested individuals can access additional resources provided by the administration.