Nuclear Test Program

An interview with Dr. Robert W. Kuckuck, Deputy Associate Director for Nuclear Testing, is presented which surveys the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's efforts in nuclear testing, the need for testing, and the role of testing in the overall weapon design process. The complex activities coordinated in the fielding of a nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site are described. Advances in nuclear testing technology are highlighted, including: x-ray spectroscopy, development of electro-optical data transmission systems, electro-optical downhole imaging systems, image data acquisition, diagnostics using charged-particle detectors, analyzing of radioactive nuclides, isotope mass spectrometry for nuclear test diagnostics, canister design, emplacing nuclear event cables with an automated system, the digital downhole surveyor, and measurements on subsurface rock. (LEW)