Why the US detonated a nuclear bomb in space

Why the US detonated a nuclear bomb in space
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 18, 2024

The detonation of a nuclear bomb into space was one of the most memorable and exciting events in human history. This shocking experiment was conducted by the United States as part of Operation Elder Tag on July 9, 1962. The 60th anniversary of this landmark scientific and defense event was recently celebrated.

The main purpose of this experiment was to study the means of supplying power plants in space, the Earth's radiation zone, and satellites.

Scientific and technological progress at that time had reached such a level that scientists and military authorities decided to conduct this experiment in order to obtain new data on the possible consequences of a nuclear war in outer space. As a result of the discovery of this phenomenon, there were significant changes in the cosmic radiation zones and a new direction of research in the field of cosmic radiation emerged.

In 1962, the U.S. conducted an operation to provide electrical transmission in space known as Operation Starfish Prime. The purpose of this study experiment was to expose the electromagnetic pulse from an explosion on the Earth's ionosphere. It was one of the most powerful nuclear tests performed in space. On July 9, 1962, a Thor rocket launched a nuclear charge to an altitude of about 400 kilometers over the Pacific Ocean.

The explosion created a huge electromagnetic flash, causing a powerful disturbance in the ionosphere. This led to the formation of an "artificial Van Allen belt" that affected satellites and other objects in space. The U.S. took such a step to assess the potential threats and possibilities of using the electromagnetic pulse for military purposes. The radiation effects on the environment and equipment were also studied, which allowed for a better understanding of the effects of nuclear explosions in space.

Operation Starfish Prime provided valuable scientific data and information on the effects on space objects. However, it also raised valid concerns about radiation safety and possible environmental effects.

What were the consequences of the experiment?
The bomb released a special isotope indicator called Cadmium-190, which provides post-test fallout measurements. Beyond this initial purpose, however, this isotopic indicator became a valuable resource for studying weather conditions in the upper atmosphere.

One of the major implications of this experiment was the discovery of serious problems associated with electromagnetic pulses (EMP) from the detonation of nuclear warheads in space. The pulses resulting from the explosion caused unforeseen and devastating effects on orbital electronics, including failures in satellites and other vehicles.

Should such a bomb explode in space over the U.S., technology and communications in most states could be knocked out. This means not only that you won't be able to play the mostbet app or watch YouTube videos, but also power outages in hospitals, chaos on the roads, and other serious consequences.

This discovery led to the realization of the dangers of using weapons in space and stimulated the development of special security measures for surveillance sites.

Starfish Prime also led to international discussions and agreements to limit the use of space weapons resources in space. The experiment catalyzed the creation of various international treaties and space regulations aimed at preventing armed conflict in space and protecting the space environment.

The experiment has come under increasing scrutiny after Russia announced plans to launch nuclear weapons into space. According to U.S. authorities, Russia has already made great strides in this project, which raises questions about U.S. security.

Entire cities could go out, even bright cities such as Las Vegas, New York, or Atlantic City, whose casinos are showing increasing profits. Not only the lights on casino facades and billboards would go out, but also the lights in the windows of homes. Thus, to defeat the U.S., Russia or China would not even have to bomb its territory. This means that such a threat simply must be taken seriously.