Kim Budil, Director of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and Brad Wallin, Deputy Director, delve into modern nuclear weapons maintenance and design without explosive tests. They discuss the innovative National Ignition Facility, where sophisticated laser systems simulate nuclear fusion conditions. The conversation highlights how advanced simulations are replacing traditional tests, the evolution of compact warheads, and groundbreaking developments in materials science and 3D printing technologies, all crucial for a safer nuclear stockpile.
