AFTAC names lab after ‘giant’ of nuclear forensics

  • Published
  • By Susan A. Romano
  • AFTAC Public Affairs
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN AIR FORCE STATION, Colo. --  The Air Force Technical Applications Center dedicated its research laboratory in Colorado after a pioneer of gas analysis techniques at a ceremony held Oct. 24, 2017.

Formerly known as Operating Location GT, the Harkins Laboratory Complex was officially named after Michael Harkins, a nuclear engineer who served as the senior scientist of AFTAC’s Technical Operations Division, Gas Analysis Laboratory, from April 1975 to July 1999.

Harkins pioneered lab methods and technologies that were critical to AFTAC’s global nuclear treaty monitoring mission. Over the course of his distinguished career, he developed ground-breaking approaches to gas analysis and oversaw the design of advanced lab equipment that exponentially increased the lab’s analysis capabilities.

“Mr. Harkins was a giant in the field of nuclear forensics,” said Jeff Moore, director of the Harkins Lab Complex. “I first met him when I was assigned to AFTAC’s gas analysis laboratory in 1989. Mike was the sole civilian in the lab, and over the course of the next six years he taught me so much about gas analysis and AFTAC’s reactor products program. The knowledge he shared with me and the guidance he provided became the foundation for my future, and has had a continued influence to this day.”

The complex operates two research lab facilities to conduct research and development in ultra-low background radiological analysis methods. The nuclear measurements facility is located deep underground in the famed Cheyenne Mountain AFS complex, also home to NORAD and U.S. Northern Command’s hardened alternate command center.

AFTAC scientists capitalize on the 2,000 feet of mountainous granite that provides natural shielding from cosmic radiation, which enables lab personnel to house and operate unique lab equipment and perform low-level radiation detection research that cannot be duplicated at any other lab in the world.

Col. Steven M. Gorski, AFTAC commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Michael Joseph, AFTAC command chief, officiated the ceremony at Cheyenne Mountain. Harkins was unable to attend the dedication, but sent a statement to Moore to share with those in attendance.

“Words hardly seem adequate to express my deep gratitude for this honor,” his letter read. “All I can do is sincerely thank all the people who made this recognition of my service possible. I am very appreciative for this honor, and by association I hope so many others realize they can share in this with me as I have never lacked for support.”

After receiving Air Force approval to name the facility after Harkins, Gorski and his leadership team got the ball rolling to turn the concept into reality.

“Mike Harkins had an incredible impact on how AFTAC conducts business to this day,” said Gorski. “Countries across the globe attempt to avoid or circumvent established international treaties and it’s our job to capitalize on the critical capability of nuclear debris analysis. The Airmen at the Harkins lab do just that, and much of that capability is due to the foundation established by Mike Harkins. It’s a testament to him that is well deserved.”

Moore added, “Mike’s legacy to nuclear science continues today. I was honored to work for him, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this prestigious recognition.”