USA Nuclear Tests: No Explosions – Energy Secretary Updates

The so-called “sub-critical” tests are used to study the behavior of fissile materials, such as plutonium and uranium, under controlled conditions. The experiments use conventional explosives and high-precision measuring instruments to simulate the pressures and temperatures of a detonation, but they do not reach the critical mass needed for a nuclear explosion. In this way, scientists can collect data on the state and stability of the warheads, improving the safety of the deterrence program. Because no chain reaction is triggered, these tests do not release atomic energy or radiation and are performed in underground laboratories or at highly shielded sites, such as the Nevada National Security Site.