Operation Storax facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Operation Storax |
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|---|---|
| Information | |
| Country | United States |
| Period | 1962–1963 |
| Number of tests | 47 |
| Test type | cratering, underground shaft, tunnel |
| Max. yield | 115 kilotonnes of TNT (480 TJ) |
Operation Storax was a series of 47 nuclear tests carried out by the United States. These tests happened between 1962 and 1963. They took place at the Nevada Test Site, a special area in Nevada. This series of tests came after Operation Fishbowl and before Operation Roller Coaster.
Contents
What Was Operation Storax?
Operation Storax involved different kinds of nuclear tests. Some tests were designed to create large craters in the ground. Others were done deep underground in shafts or tunnels. The main goals were to develop new nuclear weapons and to research peaceful uses for nuclear explosions.
The Biggest Test: Sedan
One of the most famous tests in Operation Storax was called Sedan. It happened on July 6, 1962. This test was a "cratering" experiment. It was part of a program called Operation Plowshare, which explored using nuclear explosions for things like digging canals.
The Sedan test created a huge crater. It moved about 12 million tons of soil. The crater was about 1,280 feet (390 meters) wide and 320 feet (98 meters) deep. The explosion had a yield of 104 kilotons. This means it was as powerful as 104,000 tons of TNT.
Other Important Tests
Many other tests were part of Operation Storax. Most of them were done underground to develop weapons.
- The Mississippi test was the most powerful. It had a yield of 115 kilotons.
- Some tests, like Bandicoot, had unexpected results. The explosion was stronger than planned. This caused some radioactive material to escape into the air.
- The Anacostia and Kaweah tests were also part of the Plowshare program. They aimed to study how to create special materials using nuclear explosions.
British Involvement
Sometimes, people include a British nuclear test called Tendrac as part of Operation Storax. This test also happened at the Nevada Test Site. You can find more information about British nuclear testing in the United States by looking up British nuclear testing in the United States.
Images for kids
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The Sedan nuclear test created a massive crater.
See also
In Spanish: Operación Storax para niños
