  I review present challenges that QCD in extreme environments presents to
lattice gauge theory. Recent data and impressions from RHIC are emphasized.
Physical pictures of heavy ion wavefunctions, collisions and the generation of
the Quark Gluon Plasma are discussed, with an eye toward engaging the lattice
and its numerical methods in more interaction with the experimental and
phenomenological developments. Controversial, but stimulating scenarios which
can be confirmed or dismissed by lattice methods are covered. In the second
half of the talk, several promising developments presented at the conference
Lattice 2002 are reviewed.
