Starfish Prime
Starfish Prime, a 1962 US high-altitude nuclear test, caused an unexpected electromagnetic pulse affecting Hawaii, created radiation belts, and impacted satellites, revealing risks of space nuclear testing.
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Starfish Prime was a high-altitude nuclear test conducted by the United States on July 9, 1962, above the Pacific Ocean. It was the largest nuclear test in outer space and part of Operation Fishbowl. The test involved a W49 thermonuclear warhead launched from Johnston Atoll, with a yield of 1.4 Mt. The explosion caused an electromagnetic pulse that exceeded expectations, affecting Hawaii 900 miles away. The test led to unexpected results, including the creation of artificial radiation belts around Earth, affecting satellites and causing failures. The detonation also produced bright auroras visible in the Pacific and southern conjugate region. Despite concerns about the trapped radiation's adverse effects, the long-term impact on satellites and space technology was significant, with several satellites failing due to radiation damage. Starfish Prime highlighted the potential risks and consequences of high-altitude nuclear testing in space, impacting both scientific understanding and technological developments in the space industry.
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