Short Wave What Happens Inside A Top-Secret U.S. Nuclear Facility?
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Feb 11, 2025 Geoff Brumfiel, NPR's science correspondent, shares insights from his exclusive tour of a top-secret underground nuclear research facility. He discusses the shift from actual nuclear tests to advanced simulations powered by supercomputers. The conversation dives into the geopolitical implications of potential future nuclear testing as nations like Russia and China ramp up their capabilities. Brumfiel also highlights the historical context of U.S. nuclear policy and the environmental risks tied to this intense scrutiny of nuclear weapons.
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History of Nuclear Testing
- Nuclear testing largely occurred in the 1950s with above-ground detonations, creating the iconic mushroom cloud image.
- This practice ended due to radioactive fallout spreading further than anticipated, contaminating unexpected areas like fishing boats and milk.
Reasons for Testing Halt
- The halt in nuclear testing post-Cold War was driven by political signaling and technological advancements.
- Supercomputers allowed for simulated testing, eliminating the immediate need for physical detonations.
Modern Nuclear Testing
- Geoff Brumfiel visited Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, home to El Capitan, a supercomputer dedicated to nuclear detonation calculations.
- This computer's immense processing power drastically reduces calculation times, changing the landscape of nuclear testing.