Operation SNAPPER. Project 7.1a. Electromagnetic Effects from Atomic Explosions.
Abstract
Studies of electromagnetic pulses emitted from atomic explosions were made at the Nevada Proving Grounds, Stanford University, Boulder, CO, Alamagordo, NM, Sterling, VA, Maynard, MASS, Robins, GA, MacDill, FLA, Bermuda, Puerto Rico and Germany. With the exception of the close-in station, the experiments were made entirely with standard radio equipment, and standard recording apparatus. Frequencies monitored extended to the maximum usable communications frequency. Measurements of potential gradients and air conductivity were also made within the test area. The close-in pulse measurements resulted in zero times to + or - 0.002 ms, and an approximate estimate of field strengths. The potential gradient and air conductivity experiments showed a definite alteration in the normal current density due to the bomb-caused ionization. All distant stations reported reception from at least one detonation, except Alamagordo, where extremely low frequencies were monitored, and Maynard, Mass. and Camp King, Germany, where both low and high frequencies were used. No estimates of bomb yield could be made, and pulses received were generally distorted by the equipment used. Obtaining a fix of the bomb explosion with direction-finding equipment appears possible. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADB951763
Entities
People
- M. H. Oleson
Organizations
- General Electric