DETECTION FROM A SATELLITE OF NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS IN SPACE BY MEANS OF AIR FLUORESCENCE IN THE UPPER ATMOSPHERE
The possibility of using satellite systems equipped to detect air fluorescence induced by x rays as a means of detecting nuclear tests is discussed from the point of view of signal strength, signal rise time, tackground noise, and elimination of "blind spots" in a ground based system. Two satellite systems are considered: a "near" system orbiting at an altitade of 500 KM and a "far" system at an altitade of 30,000 KM. The maximum range of detection for nuclear explosions occurring in space is found to be much less for either satellite system than for a ground based fluorescence observation system. However, explosions occurring at altitudes below 500 KM with as little as 1 KT x- ray yield can be detected by either satellite system, thus making possible the elimination of blind spots in the proposed ground based system which extend to 400 KM altitade. Complete coverage of the earth's surface is provided by 4 or 5 satellites in the far system or by approximately 40 in the near system. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos Scientific Lab., N. Mex.
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- NSA Number:
- NSA-14-016086
- OSTI ID:
- 4154620
- Report Number(s):
- TID-5884
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Orig. Receipt Date: 31-DEC-60
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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