Underground nuclear weapons testing

Underground nuclear weapons testing refers to the process of detonating nuclear weapons in a subterranean environment, typically in a specially designed tunnel or cavern. This method of testing was developed as a safer and less detectable alternative to atmospheric nuclear testing, which was the primary method used during the early years of the Cold War.

History

The first underground nuclear test, codenamed "Trinity", was conducted by the United States in 1945. This marked the beginning of the nuclear age, and set the precedent for future underground tests by other nations. In the following decades, the Soviet Union, United Kingdom, France, and China also conducted their own underground nuclear tests.

Methodology

Underground nuclear tests are typically conducted in a vertical shaft or horizontal tunnel, which is then sealed off to contain the nuclear blast. The weapon is detonated at a predetermined depth, which is calculated based on the yield of the weapon and the desired level of containment. The resulting explosion creates a cavity in the rock, which collapses to form a subsidence crater on the surface.

Effects

The primary advantage of underground testing is that it significantly reduces the amount of radioactive fallout released into the atmosphere. However, it can still result in the release of radioactive gases, which can seep to the surface and contaminate the surrounding environment. Underground tests can also cause earthquakes and landslides, and the subsidence craters they create can pose a long-term hazard.

Treaties and agreements

In response to the environmental and health risks posed by nuclear testing, several international treaties have been established to regulate and limit these activities. The most significant of these is the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), which prohibits all forms of nuclear explosions, including underground tests. However, the treaty has not yet entered into force, as it has not been ratified by all necessary parties.

See also

• Nuclear weapons and the United States
• Nuclear weapons and the Soviet Union
• Nuclear weapons and the United Kingdom
• Nuclear weapons and France
• Nuclear weapons and China