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Tepco Sends Spot and Packbot Into Fukushima Reactor to Map Radiation for Debris Retrieval

The monthlong inspection will guide debris recovery plans following Tepco’s revision to a 12–15 year preparation phase.

Overview

  • Tokyo Electric Power Company said the robots were deployed to measure radiation and capture imagery inside a damaged unit at Fukushima Daiichi.
  • Japanese media reported that analyzing the collected samples is expected to take about a month.
  • Tepco will decide the method and sequence for extracting fuel debris based on the inspection results.
  • The utility now projects 12 to 15 years of preparatory work, pushing full debris retrieval to no earlier than 2037.
  • Roughly 880 tons of highly hazardous material remain in the plant, and Tepco still describes the 2051 full‑decommissioning target as difficult yet possible.