Throughline What Happened to Vladimir Alexandrov?
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Nov 25, 2025 
Andrew Revkin, a veteran environmental and science journalist, delves into the mysterious disappearance of Soviet scientist Vladimir Alexandrov, who championed nuclear winter theory. Revkin shares insights on Alexandrov's charisma and pivotal collaborations with Carl Sagan. The conversation explores Alexandrov's erratic behavior prior to vanishing and the conflicting reports surrounding his last night. Speculations arise about possible kidnapping, defection, or even murder, as Revkin reflects on the ongoing investigation into this enigma.
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Soviet Scientist As Public Bridge
- Vladimir Alexandrov served as the Soviet public face on nuclear winter, befriending American scientists including Carl Sagan.
- He traveled widely, testified in Congress, and cultivated Western contacts before his disappearance.
Science As Cold War Bridge
- Alexandrov was groomed by Soviet institutions to publicize nuclear winter alongside Western scientists like Carl Sagan.
- Science served as both a Cold War battleground and a bridge for détente-era exchanges.
Mysterious Disappearance In Spain
- Alexandrov flew to Spain in March 1985 for a conference and began acting unusually distraught and drunk on arrival.
- He was last reported given a hotel room and then vanished after embassy staff collected his belongings.