Woomera Test Range facts for kids
The RAAF Woomera Test Range is a huge place in South Australia. It is used to test weapons. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) runs this special area. It covers about 127,000 square kilometres. This makes it the world's largest land-based weapons testing site. The area is restricted, meaning people cannot just enter it. It is called the Woomera Prohibited Area. The sky above it is also restricted. This is known as the Woomera Restricted Airspace.
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History of the Woomera Range
The Woomera Test Range was first set up during World War II. The British wanted a place to test their missiles. They chose central Australia because very few people lived there. In 1946, Australia and Britain signed an agreement. This project was called the Australian-Anglo Joint Project. At first, the range was even bigger, covering about 270,000 square kilometres.
Between 1955 and 1963, the British conducted some nuclear-weapon tests. These happened at a place called Maralinga, which was then part of the range. The Joint Project continued until 1980. That is when the British stopped being part of the program.
Who Uses Woomera Today?
The range is still an important testing site today. The Australian Defence Force uses it for their own tests. Other countries' militaries also use the range. Private companies can also rent space there to test their weapons.
What Does Woomera Mean?
The name "Woomera" comes from the Dharug language. It is a word for a spear-thrower. This is a tool used by Aboriginal people to throw spears with more force.
Images for kids
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Warning sign on the Stuart Highway
See also
In Spanish: Woomera Test Range para niños
