Operation Praetorian facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Praetorian |
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|---|---|
| Information | |
| Country | United States |
| Period | 1981–1982 |
| Number of tests | 19 |
| Test type | underground shaft, tunnel |
| Max. yield | 140 kilotonnes of TNT (590 TJ) |
The United States's Praetorian nuclear test series was a group of 19 nuclear tests conducted by the United States between 1981 and 1982. These tests were done deep underground. They happened after a series called Operation Guardian and before another called Operation Phalanx.
Contents
What Was the Praetorian Test Series?
The Praetorian series included 19 separate nuclear tests. These tests took place over two years, from 1981 to 1982. Each test involved setting off a nuclear device far beneath the ground.
Where Did These Tests Happen?
All the tests in the Praetorian series happened at the Nevada Test Site (NTS). This site is a large area in Nevada, USA, where the United States conducted many nuclear tests. The tests were done in deep holes called shafts or in long underground tunnels.
Why Were These Tests Done?
The main reason for the Praetorian tests was to develop new nuclear weapons. Scientists and engineers wanted to improve existing designs or create new ones. Some tests also studied the weapon effect. This means they wanted to see how nuclear explosions affected different materials or structures underground.
How Powerful Were These Tests?
The power of a nuclear test is called its yield. This is measured in kilotons (kt). One kiloton is equal to 1,000 tons of TNT explosive. The tests in the Praetorian series had different yields. The most powerful test was called Hosta, which had a yield of 140 kilotons. This was a very strong explosion, but it happened deep underground.
Important Tests in the Series
- Paliza was the first test in the series, happening on October 1, 1981.
- Jornada was one of the most powerful tests, with a yield of 139 kilotons.
- Hosta was the strongest, reaching 140 kilotons.
- Diamond Ace and Huron Landing were two tests that happened at the same time. They were done in tunnels to study weapon effects.
- Borrego was the last test in the series, conducted on September 29, 1982.
Some tests, like Tilci and Akavi, had small amounts of radioactive material escape. This is called "venting detected." Scientists monitored these events carefully.
