The problematic issue has always been how to accommodate such applications without compromising legitimate national security interests.
Recent developments demonstrate progress in addressing that issue.
For several years, researchers with security clearances have been using classified data from operational stations for various applications with support from the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program. Some of those research efforts are in progress today using classified data from both operational and reactivated stations. Subsequently, potential users would have the opportunity to develop proposals focused on their own research or other activities. Every site offers opportunities for one or more applications, but each site has its own geographic and system-health limitations. Startup and operational costs at other sites should be roughly comparable, but will vary based on each station's present condition.