Key US Experiment in Nevada..

The United States has conducted a new underground experiment to strengthen its ability to detect nuclear explosions. The experiment was carried out at the Nevada National Security Site using non-nuclear chemical high explosives and radiotracers. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) said the test was not a nuclear explosion. Its primary objective was to improve the detection and characterization of low-yield underground nuclear explosions.

The experiment took place in the P Tunnel in Area 12 of the Nevada National Security Site. Researchers collected data using a range of sensors, including seismometers, accelerometers, infrasound and electromagnetic sensors, as well as chemical and radiotracer samplers. The data will be used to validate scientific models and refine computer algorithms used for nuclear explosion detection. The experiment also focuses on detecting “decoupled” explosions, in which underground chambers or tunnels can significantly reduce the seismic signals generated by an explosion.