https://simplecast.com National Security Science Podcast The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security. 2020 Los Alamos National Laboratory en Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:14:31 +0000 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:29:21 +0000 https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com National Security Science Podcast https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/941ede72-3894-4344-8817-c88aa9797fa6/9173d671-d0da-4697-999f-fa0e2abe3ba5/3000x3000/mainthumbnail2.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com episodic The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security. Brenda Fleming, J. Weston Phippen, Whitney Spivey, Los Alamos National Laboratory false https://feeds.simplecast.com/f_FsC_dR los alamos national laboratory, national lab, national labs, national security science, nuclear Los Alamos National Laboratory bfleming@lanl.gov fda6f6a5-f837-4f37-aef3-fcb555102f25 Learn to use a glovebox at Los Alamos National Laboratory To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

AI was used to prepare portions of this episode.

]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:14:31 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, National Security Science magazine) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/learn-to-use-a-glovebox-at-los-alamos-national-laboratory-2nn4k5Fc To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

AI was used to prepare portions of this episode.

]]> Learn to use a glovebox at Los Alamos National Laboratory LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, National Security Science magazine 00:17:18 Want to spend some time in someone else’s gloves? Tune in to the National Security Science podcast to hear a magazine writer get (literal) hands-on experience as a glovebox worker at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Gloveboxes are sealed, steel compartments with gloves attached to their openings. Technicians insert their hands into the gloves to carry out a wide variety of processes involving radioactive materials, including the making of plutonium pits, the cores of nuclear weapons. In this episode you can also test your Los Alamos National Laboratory knowledge with questions from the television gameshow Jeopardy. It’s all part of National Security Science magazine’s “Knowledge” issue, available in print and online at https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. Want to spend some time in someone else’s gloves? Tune in to the National Security Science podcast to hear a magazine writer get (literal) hands-on experience as a glovebox worker at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Gloveboxes are sealed, steel compartments with gloves attached to their openings. Technicians insert their hands into the gloves to carry out a wide variety of processes involving radioactive materials, including the making of plutonium pits, the cores of nuclear weapons. In this episode you can also test your Los Alamos National Laboratory knowledge with questions from the television gameshow Jeopardy. It’s all part of National Security Science magazine’s “Knowledge” issue, available in print and online at https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. jeopardy, lanl, los alamos national laboratory, los alamos, glovebox, radioactive materials, nuclear weapons, plutonium false full 30 4cd4c205-95c8-4750-a019-b1df4a9090cc Rocket launch at Spaceport tests new Los Alamos technology To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:07:16 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/los-alamos-national-laboratory-rocket-launch-uBE7Mn1N To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> Rocket launch at Spaceport tests new Los Alamos technology LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos 00:15:50 Join Los Alamos National Laboratory for an audio field trip to a suborbital rocket launch. The flight took place in November 2025 in conjunction with commercial partner UP Aerospace, conducted the launch at Spaceport America. The goal was to test the performance of a new re-entry vehicle featuring a deployable aeroshell built by another commercial partner, Redwire Space, with assistance from the NASA Ames Research Center, which develops the technologies, simulations, and scientific foundations that make NASA missions possible. Join Los Alamos National Laboratory for an audio field trip to a suborbital rocket launch. The flight took place in November 2025 in conjunction with commercial partner UP Aerospace, conducted the launch at Spaceport America. The goal was to test the performance of a new re-entry vehicle featuring a deployable aeroshell built by another commercial partner, Redwire Space, with assistance from the NASA Ames Research Center, which develops the technologies, simulations, and scientific foundations that make NASA missions possible. suborbital, redwire space, spaceflight, white sands missile range, spaceport america, launch, flight test, rocket, nasa, rocket launch, up aerospace false full 29 b4326006-8f1c-40e4-a8b5-c55048bc7a50 Holiday memories from Los Alamos: Los Alamos Historical Society's Yuletide Tales with Mike Katko The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online at https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science.  Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

 

]]> Fri, 19 Dec 2025 20:44:17 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Mike Katko, Los Alamos Historical Society, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Oppenheimer) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/holiday-memories-from-los-alamos-ralUfmbX The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online at https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science.  Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

 

]]> Holiday memories from Los Alamos: Los Alamos Historical Society's Yuletide Tales with Mike Katko Mike Katko, Los Alamos Historical Society, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Oppenheimer 00:16:34 As we welcome the holiday season and ring in the new year at Los Alamos National Laboratory, National Security Science magazine takes listeners on a journey into the past. You will enjoy excerpts from a special Yuletide presentation from the Los Alamos Historical Society. Storyteller Mike Katko shares holiday reflections highlighting the people and history that make Los Alamos unique. From cherished memories to family traditions, this podcast offers something for Los Alamos history and holiday lovers alike. Special thanks to Mike Katko, the Los Alamos Historical Society, and PAC8 Community Media Center and happy holidays from National Security Science magazine. As we welcome the holiday season and ring in the new year at Los Alamos National Laboratory, National Security Science magazine takes listeners on a journey into the past. You will enjoy excerpts from a special Yuletide presentation from the Los Alamos Historical Society. Storyteller Mike Katko shares holiday reflections highlighting the people and history that make Los Alamos unique. From cherished memories to family traditions, this podcast offers something for Los Alamos history and holiday lovers alike. Special thanks to Mike Katko, the Los Alamos Historical Society, and PAC8 Community Media Center and happy holidays from National Security Science magazine. manhattan project, lanl, los alamos national laboratory, los alamos, wwii holidays, oppenheimer, mike katko, holidays in los alamos false full 28 794d5f9e-b3ed-457f-87b1-b4b237a623ed High explosives safety testing; LANL Dynamic Experiments division To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> Tue, 26 Aug 2025 18:39:56 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/high-explosives-safety-testing-lanl-dynamic-experiments-division-vYixZ2jR To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> High explosives safety testing; LANL Dynamic Experiments division Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL 00:21:22 In the latest episode of the National Security Science podcast, listeners can experience the preparation, execution and aftermath of an explosives safety test. National Security Science takes listeners to the scene of the experiment. As a team of Los Alamos engineers prepare, they discuss the outcome—will it be a boom or a bust? We also sit down with Division Director Chuck Mielke who offers insight on M Division and his team’s work. The Dynamic Experiments division, or M Division, executes large-scale, outdoor, hydrodynamic experiments and provides expertise in current and evolving explosive science, shock physics, high explosive fabrication and disposition. As Mielke explains, the division supports national security and addresses conventional, nuclear, and homeland defense needs. In the latest episode of the National Security Science podcast, listeners can experience the preparation, execution and aftermath of an explosives safety test. National Security Science takes listeners to the scene of the experiment. As a team of Los Alamos engineers prepare, they discuss the outcome—will it be a boom or a bust? We also sit down with Division Director Chuck Mielke who offers insight on M Division and his team’s work. The Dynamic Experiments division, or M Division, executes large-scale, outdoor, hydrodynamic experiments and provides expertise in current and evolving explosive science, shock physics, high explosive fabrication and disposition. As Mielke explains, the division supports national security and addresses conventional, nuclear, and homeland defense needs. detonation, high explosives, dynamic experiments division, he, los alamos, m division, nuclear weapons, explosives experiment, explosive safety, lanl m division false full 27 d16d250c-5434-4a2a-926d-e982dc84df43 A Visit to the Trinity Site: Remembering the detonation of the first nuclear device To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by thethe office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> Mon, 7 Jul 2025 17:48:24 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Brenda Fleming, Ian Laird, Whitney Spivey, Jill Gibson) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/a-visit-to-the-trinity-site-remembering-the-detonation-of-the-first-nuclear-device-ov75HskP To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by thethe office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> A Visit to the Trinity Site: Remembering the detonation of the first nuclear device LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Brenda Fleming, Ian Laird, Whitney Spivey, Jill Gibson 00:24:59 In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, we discuss a recent trip the team took to the Trinity site—the location where the first nuclear device was detonated almost exactly 80 years ago. Along with listening to audio from the visit, you will hear the team discuss their impressions of the site and provide some historical context behind the artifacts and structures that remain. In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, we discuss a recent trip the team took to the Trinity site—the location where the first nuclear device was detonated almost exactly 80 years ago. Along with listening to audio from the visit, you will hear the team discuss their impressions of the site and provide some historical context behind the artifacts and structures that remain. weapon, world war ii, trinity, detonation, trinity site, nuclear bomb, los alamos national laboratory, trinity test, nuclear weapon, los alamos, atomic weapons, nuclear weapons, oppenheimer, atomic bomb false full 26 e056a610-6939-4d15-acd6-d56b42e9386f Remembering Charlie McMillan, the 10th director of Los Alamos National Laboratory Read the feature article about McMillan.

Read remembrances of McMillan.

Read other National Security Science magazine articles.

National Security Science highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

 

]]> Tue, 8 Apr 2025 14:32:22 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Ian Laird, Brenda Fleming, Whitney Spivey) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/remembering-charlie-mcmillan-the-10th-director-of-los-alamos-national-laboratory-cJA5OpcD Read the feature article about McMillan.

Read remembrances of McMillan.

Read other National Security Science magazine articles.

National Security Science highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the office of the deputy Laboratory director for Weapons. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

 

]]> Remembering Charlie McMillan, the 10th director of Los Alamos National Laboratory Ian Laird, Brenda Fleming, Whitney Spivey 00:26:19 National Security Science art director Brenda Fleming and editor Whitney Spivey sit down to discuss the life and career of physicist and former Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Charlie McMillan. They share never-before-released audio clips of McMillan, as well as audio from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Director Kim Budil and former National Nuclear Security Administration head Jill Hruby. Grab some tissues. National Security Science art director Brenda Fleming and editor Whitney Spivey sit down to discuss the life and career of physicist and former Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Charlie McMillan. They share never-before-released audio clips of McMillan, as well as audio from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Director Kim Budil and former National Nuclear Security Administration head Jill Hruby. Grab some tissues. charles mcmillan, national laboratory, nuclear deterrence, los alamos, leadership in science, charlie mcmillan, leadership, deterrence false full 25 a03c46e4-f41a-4ce7-aee9-1a1c1d2c0e00 Manufacturing nuclear weapons parts; Lab fellows; supermassive black hole To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the Lab’s Office of National Security and International Studies. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> Mon, 25 Nov 2024 20:41:08 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Laboratory) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/manufacturing-nuclear-weapons-parts-lab-fellows-supermassive-black-hole-ZtBl2br3 To learn more, see https://www.lanl.gov/media/publications/national-security-science. National Security Science (NSS) highlights work in the weapons and other national security programs at Los Alamos National Laboratory. NSS is unclassified and supported by the Lab’s Office of National Security and International Studies. To subscribe, email magazine@lanl.gov, or call 505-667-4106.

]]> Manufacturing nuclear weapons parts; Lab fellows; supermassive black hole Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Laboratory 00:17:29 In this episode, NSS explores a little-known facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory that supports national security by manufacturing nonnuclear parts for the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile. The Mark Quality Manufacturing Center performs machining, assembly, and inspection. The goal is making perfect parts. The episode also introduces the latest Los Alamos National Laboratory Fellows--seven researchers honored for their contributions and explains how a Los Alamos scientist has identified the largest black hole ever measured. In this episode, NSS explores a little-known facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory that supports national security by manufacturing nonnuclear parts for the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile. The Mark Quality Manufacturing Center performs machining, assembly, and inspection. The goal is making perfect parts. The episode also introduces the latest Los Alamos National Laboratory Fellows--seven researchers honored for their contributions and explains how a Los Alamos scientist has identified the largest black hole ever measured. nuclear stockpile, back hole, manufacturing, mqmc, war reserve, mark quality manufacturing center, nuclear deterrent, nuclear weapons, mark quality manufacturing, united states deterrent, lab fellows, nuclear device false full 24 e9298065-dae0-4ac1-81f4-51782b281ed1 Norris Bradbury, Los Alamos History, AI The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR--24-29457

]]> Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:25:36 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Nic Lewis, Norris Bradbury, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/norris-bradbury-los-alamos-history-ai-wOr8wU08 The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR--24-29457

]]> Norris Bradbury, Los Alamos History, AI Nic Lewis, Norris Bradbury, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL 00:15:48 Episode Summary: National Security Science magazine interviews Los Alamos National Laboratory historian Nic Lewis about the Lab’s longest serving director, Norris Bradbury. Learn about how Bradbury impacted the evolution of the Lab. You’ll also hear historical audio clips from Bradbury himself. Labcast: Los Alamos establishes Open AI partnership for studying biological threats that frontier AI models could pose. Highlights from the Hill: Los Alamos uses machine learning to detect earthquakes. Learn more about Norris Bradbury, the Lab’s second—and longest serving—director who ensured Los Alamos survived and thrived after World War II: https://discover.lanl.gov/publications/national-security-science/2024-summer/norris-bradbury. Check out the Summer 2024 New Mexico issue at https://discover.lanl.gov/publications/national-security-science/2024-summer/ Episode Summary: National Security Science magazine interviews Los Alamos National Laboratory historian Nic Lewis about the Lab’s longest serving director, Norris Bradbury. Learn about how Bradbury impacted the evolution of the Lab. You’ll also hear historical audio clips from Bradbury himself. Labcast: Los Alamos establishes Open AI partnership for studying biological threats that frontier AI models could pose. Highlights from the Hill: Los Alamos uses machine learning to detect earthquakes. Learn more about Norris Bradbury, the Lab’s second—and longest serving—director who ensured Los Alamos survived and thrived after World War II: https://discover.lanl.gov/publications/national-security-science/2024-summer/norris-bradbury. Check out the Summer 2024 New Mexico issue at https://discover.lanl.gov/publications/national-security-science/2024-summer/ science, clean energy, tech transfer, terry wallace, bradbury, dinosaurs, lanl, b61-13, los alamos, flight testing, seismosaurus, four corners rapid response team, scorpius, lanl history, albuquerque, new mexico, partners, norris bradbury false full 23 2216e05d-d7f3-4564-a136-cf4db313ea82 Nuclear Weapons Effects, Artificial Intelligence, Subcritical Experiments To learn more about nuclear weapons effects, see the Spring 2024 issue of National Security Science magazine and the following articles: 

Beyond the Blast

What Affects Effects

EMP: Could It Happen to Me?

Effects in Action

]]> Wed, 26 Jun 2024 22:49:13 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/nuclear-weapons-effects-artificial-intelligence-subcritical-experiments-3zWQEu1x To learn more about nuclear weapons effects, see the Spring 2024 issue of National Security Science magazine and the following articles: 

Beyond the Blast

What Affects Effects

EMP: Could It Happen to Me?

Effects in Action

]]> Nuclear Weapons Effects, Artificial Intelligence, Subcritical Experiments Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos 00:28:41 Los Alamos National Laboratory Chief Scientist for Weapons Effects Tim Goorley explains how understanding nuclear weapons effects is a crucial component of national security. He addresses what happens when a nuclear device detonates and how scientists study nuclear weapons effects. Labcast: Artificial Intelligence takes center stage as Los Alamos National Laboratory creates National Security AI Office. Highlights from the Hill: Los Alamos National Laboratory begins assembly on components for Scorpius—a machine that will allow scientists to use real plutonium in subcritical experiments to study how nuclear weapons behave. Los Alamos National Laboratory Chief Scientist for Weapons Effects Tim Goorley explains how understanding nuclear weapons effects is a crucial component of national security. He addresses what happens when a nuclear device detonates and how scientists study nuclear weapons effects. Labcast: Artificial Intelligence takes center stage as Los Alamos National Laboratory creates National Security AI Office. Highlights from the Hill: Los Alamos National Laboratory begins assembly on components for Scorpius—a machine that will allow scientists to use real plutonium in subcritical experiments to study how nuclear weapons behave. science, usa deterrent, nuclear deterrence, us deterrent, weapons effects, nnsa, nuclear bomb, national security science, los alamos, national lab, nuclear weapons, united states deterrent, nuclear weapons effects, nuclear device, deterrence false full 22 b49e5a2b-27a0-4ef8-b494-9a8f4d83e12e National Nuclear Deterrence Summary with Jill Hruby, Bob Webster, and Will Toby, Exceeding Expectations for Hazardous Waste, Indigenous Physics Students Fri, 3 May 2024 16:35:21 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/national-nuclear-deterrence-summary-with-jill-hruby-bob-webster-and-will-toby-exceeding-expectations-for-hazardous-waste-indigenous-physics-students-rGNIA_S9 National Nuclear Deterrence Summary with Jill Hruby, Bob Webster, and Will Toby, Exceeding Expectations for Hazardous Waste, Indigenous Physics Students Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Laboratory 00:28:43 This episode topic is deterrence. We'll explore the meaning of deterrence and how the national labs help keep our country safe. We'll also bring you some audio from a deterrence conference that our team attended. To hear more about deterrence and the role Los Alamos plays, check out our latest National Security Science magazine at lanl.gov/magazine. This issue includes feature stories on what deterrence is and how it’s used, weapons effects, and some perspectives from people involved in the air- and sea-based deterrents. Labcast: Los Alamos National Laboratory is exceeding expectations in radiological and hazardous waste disposal. Highlights from the Hill: Los Alamos National Laboratory is helping bring indigenous college students into the field of physics. This episode topic is deterrence. We'll explore the meaning of deterrence and how the national labs help keep our country safe. We'll also bring you some audio from a deterrence conference that our team attended. To hear more about deterrence and the role Los Alamos plays, check out our latest National Security Science magazine at lanl.gov/magazine. This issue includes feature stories on what deterrence is and how it’s used, weapons effects, and some perspectives from people involved in the air- and sea-based deterrents. Labcast: Los Alamos National Laboratory is exceeding expectations in radiological and hazardous waste disposal. Highlights from the Hill: Los Alamos National Laboratory is helping bring indigenous college students into the field of physics. science, radioactive waste, usa deterrent, nuclear deterrence, us deterrent, wipp, atomic, nnsa, los alamos, program of record, nuclear weapons, united states deterrent, deterrence false full 21 c7581722-6a07-4906-8daf-d8b65b6b9cc1 Manhattan Project Wartime Holiday Stories; Edith Warner Christmas Letters 1943; Eleanor Jette Reflections on Los Alamos Festivities and Oppenheimer The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov. 

National Security Research Center “Edith Warner” article:  

https://discover.lanl.gov/publications/the-vault/the-vault-2022/edith-warner/

For more Los Alamos stories, visit discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-23-34109

]]> Wed, 20 Dec 2023 18:36:57 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/ep-19-manhattan-project-wartime-holiday-stories-edith-warner-christmas-letters-1943-eleanor-jette-reflections-on-los-alamos-festivities-and-oppenheimer-Pbv4t5Tg The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov. 

National Security Research Center “Edith Warner” article:  

https://discover.lanl.gov/publications/the-vault/the-vault-2022/edith-warner/

For more Los Alamos stories, visit discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-23-34109

]]> Manhattan Project Wartime Holiday Stories; Edith Warner Christmas Letters 1943; Eleanor Jette Reflections on Los Alamos Festivities and Oppenheimer Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab 00:12:13 As we welcome the holiday season at Los Alamos National Laboratory, we’re taking a look back to the Manhattan Project. If you love Los Alamos history and the holidays–this podcast is for you! We will listen to holiday wartime stories of living on the Pajarito Plateau and under the leadership of J. Robert Oppenheimer, written by Edith Warner and Eleanor Jette, and read by Bradbury Science Museum director Linda Deck and National Security Science magazine writer Jill Gibson. As we welcome the holiday season at Los Alamos National Laboratory, we’re taking a look back to the Manhattan Project. If you love Los Alamos history and the holidays–this podcast is for you! We will listen to holiday wartime stories of living on the Pajarito Plateau and under the leadership of J. Robert Oppenheimer, written by Edith Warner and Eleanor Jette, and read by Bradbury Science Museum director Linda Deck and National Security Science magazine writer Jill Gibson. world war ii, manhattan project, jette, wartime los alamos, los alamos, eleanor jette, holidays in los alamos, edith warner false full 19 02f0c047-e140-4097-9c49-d4f40ccf56d2 Robert Wilson and Early days of Physics Division; Los Alamos R&D winners; Linda Deck reads Women Army Corps poem The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-23-32384

]]> Mon, 30 Oct 2023 20:25:11 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-18-robert-wison-talks-about-the-early-days-of-physics-division-los-alamos-rd-winners-linda-deck-reads-women-army-core-poem-qht4ietX The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-23-32384

]]> Robert Wilson and Early days of Physics Division; Los Alamos R&D winners; Linda Deck reads Women Army Corps poem Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab 00:19:12 EPISODE FEATURE National Security Science J. Weston Phippen reads an article published in 1992 titled, “A reluctant division leader,” by the first Manhattan Project Physics division leader, Robert Wilson. Wilson talks about the early days at Los Alamos. LABCAST Ten Los Alamos projects have won innovation awards. The R&D 100 awards are considered the 'Oscars of Invention' and honor the best inventions of the past year. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE HILL Bradbury Science museum director reads a World War II–era poem by the Women’s Army Corps stationed in Los Alamos. EPISODE FEATURE National Security Science J. Weston Phippen reads an article published in 1992 titled, “A reluctant division leader,” by the first Manhattan Project Physics division leader, Robert Wilson. Wilson talks about the early days at Los Alamos. LABCAST Ten Los Alamos projects have won innovation awards. The R&D 100 awards are considered the 'Oscars of Invention' and honor the best inventions of the past year. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE HILL Bradbury Science museum director reads a World War II–era poem by the Women’s Army Corps stationed in Los Alamos. robert wilson, manhattan project, atomic history, wacs, science awards, los alamos, nsrc, physics, oppenheimer, females in world war ii false full 18 b3fb1468-86fd-43f1-9f7d-be76f8fddc62 Oppenheimer Talks Bohr 1964, NSRC Documentary, Macaw Eggs at Los Alamos The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-23-31276

]]> Wed, 4 Oct 2023 18:51:27 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/ep-17-oppenheimer-talks-bohr-1964-nsrc-documentary-macaw-eggs-at-los-alamos-Jo7gzRxw The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-23-31276

]]> Oppenheimer Talks Bohr 1964, NSRC Documentary, Macaw Eggs at Los Alamos Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab 00:18:18 National Security Science Writer Ian Laird narrates along with a special recording of Oppenheimer from his return to Los Alamos in 1964. He spoke to a packed audience at Los Alamos high school about Niels Bohr. LANL Los Alamos National Laboratory’s National Security Science Research Center releases a 3-part documentary on J Robert Oppenheimer. Scanning electron microscopy explores macaw eggshell remains. National Security Science Writer Ian Laird narrates along with a special recording of Oppenheimer from his return to Los Alamos in 1964. He spoke to a packed audience at Los Alamos high school about Niels Bohr. LANL Los Alamos National Laboratory’s National Security Science Research Center releases a 3-part documentary on J Robert Oppenheimer. Scanning electron microscopy explores macaw eggshell remains. new mexico indigenous, manhattan project, scanning electron microscopy, neils bohr, macaw, los alamos, nsrc, oppenheimer, j robert oppenheimer, indigenous false full 17 ed7dbe05-9584-4da6-b475-e5185366bc0d Subcritical Testing; Nevada Episode (3 of 3) The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

 

LA-UR-23-23050

Previous title: Nevada  series episode 3: Subcritical testing at the Nevada National Security Site 

]]> Fri, 14 Apr 2023 22:33:40 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/nevada-series-episode-3-subcritical-testing-at-the-nevada-national-security-site-CIkCaCOp The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

 

LA-UR-23-23050

Previous title: Nevada  series episode 3: Subcritical testing at the Nevada National Security Site 

]]> Subcritical Testing; Nevada Episode (3 of 3) Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos, LANL 00:16:13 U.S nuclear weapons have played a critical role in preventing conflict among major powers since the end of World War II. Ensuring the safety and reliability of this nuclear deterrent is an essential part of national security. But, how can scientists test and evaluate the U.S. nuclear stockpile in the absence of nuclear testing? In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, we’ll learn all about new experiments to ensure the United States maintains a safe, secure, and reliable nuclear stockpile. It all starts nearly 1,000 feet underground. U.S nuclear weapons have played a critical role in preventing conflict among major powers since the end of World War II. Ensuring the safety and reliability of this nuclear deterrent is an essential part of national security. But, how can scientists test and evaluate the U.S. nuclear stockpile in the absence of nuclear testing? In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, we’ll learn all about new experiments to ensure the United States maintains a safe, secure, and reliable nuclear stockpile. It all starts nearly 1,000 feet underground. science, stockpile stewardship, nevada national security site, los alamos, nevada test site, stockpile, deterrence false full 16 5a56bf03-b03d-4c97-9f1b-23ec67a6d2d5 Nuclear Testing Moratorium, Pivot to Stockpile Stewardship; Nevada Episode (2 of 3) The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

 

LA-UR-23-23250

Previous title: Nevada series episode 2: The testing moratorium and the pivot to stockpile stewardship

]]> Fri, 14 Apr 2023 22:07:13 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/nevada-series-episode-2-the-end-of-testing-and-the-pivot-to-stockpile-stewardship-w7MViUam The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

 

LA-UR-23-23250

Previous title: Nevada series episode 2: The testing moratorium and the pivot to stockpile stewardship

]]> Nuclear Testing Moratorium, Pivot to Stockpile Stewardship; Nevada Episode (2 of 3) Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos 00:11:11 On September 23, 1992, the United States conducted Divider, an underground test at the Nevada Test Site, which is now called the Nevada National Security Site. The test, designed and executed by scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory, was the nation’s 1,054th and final nuclear weapons test before the current testing moratorium. Divider marked the end of an era that began with the Trinity test. Thirty years later, the National Security Science magazine team paid a visit to the Divider test site. We traveled with group of scientists who had been involved with underground nuclear testing to mark this historic anniversary. On September 23, 1992, the United States conducted Divider, an underground test at the Nevada Test Site, which is now called the Nevada National Security Site. The test, designed and executed by scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory, was the nation’s 1,054th and final nuclear weapons test before the current testing moratorium. Divider marked the end of an era that began with the Trinity test. Thirty years later, the National Security Science magazine team paid a visit to the Divider test site. We traveled with group of scientists who had been involved with underground nuclear testing to mark this historic anniversary. science, nuclear stockpile, atomic history, nuclear, divider, moratorium, nevada national security site, los alamos, nuclear testing, nevada test site, deterrence false full 15 e5577f26-f1f2-473d-b38b-a2302fb9d1ef Nuclear Testing at Nevada; Nevada Episode (1 of 3) The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

 

LA-UR-23-20707

Previous title: Nevada series episode 1: Historical nuclear testing

 

]]> Fri, 14 Apr 2023 21:51:03 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/nevada-series-episode-1-historical-nuclear-testing-V4HBbDPi The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

 

LA-UR-23-20707

Previous title: Nevada series episode 1: Historical nuclear testing

 

]]> Nuclear Testing at Nevada; Nevada Episode (1 of 3) Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL 00:17:51 This episode marks the first of a three-part series on nuclear testing. Our team traveled to the Nevada National Security Site to explore the history of nuclear testing, how it started, how it ended, and what scientists are doing now. We begin the three-part series by joining the magazine’s Jill Gibson as she embarks on a ‘technical orientation visit’ to the Nevada National Security Site, which was formerly the Nevada Test Site and before that the Nevada Proving Grounds. The site is located about an hour north of Las Vegas in a highly secure area chosen in 1951 for its remote location. It stretches across 1,355-square-miles—making it larger than the state of Rhode Island. Between 1951 and 1992 a total of 928 nuclear tests were conducted at the site, 828 of which were underground. This episode marks the first of a three-part series on nuclear testing. Our team traveled to the Nevada National Security Site to explore the history of nuclear testing, how it started, how it ended, and what scientists are doing now. We begin the three-part series by joining the magazine’s Jill Gibson as she embarks on a ‘technical orientation visit’ to the Nevada National Security Site, which was formerly the Nevada Test Site and before that the Nevada Proving Grounds. The site is located about an hour north of Las Vegas in a highly secure area chosen in 1951 for its remote location. It stretches across 1,355-square-miles—making it larger than the state of Rhode Island. Between 1951 and 1992 a total of 928 nuclear tests were conducted at the site, 828 of which were underground. science, atomic history, nuclear, nevada national security site, los alamos, nuclear effects, nuclear testing, nevada test site false full 14 e86b1ad7-b57c-4d8e-9f18-ba430eed75d0 Linear Accelerator, LANSCE, Turns 50; Interview with Scientists The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security. 

Links:

“LAMPF Accelerator Reaches Full Energy,” The Atom, July-August 1972

“LAMPF: a dream and a gamble,” Los Alamos Science, winter-spring 1983

 

LA-UR-22-25189

 

Previous title: The Los Alamos Neutron Science Center turns 50!

]]> Mon, 6 Jun 2022 21:17:02 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/the-los-alamos-neutron-science-center-turns-50-wJr08P5_ The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security. 

Links:

“LAMPF Accelerator Reaches Full Energy,” The Atom, July-August 1972

“LAMPF: a dream and a gamble,” Los Alamos Science, winter-spring 1983

 

LA-UR-22-25189

 

Previous title: The Los Alamos Neutron Science Center turns 50!

]]> Linear Accelerator, LANSCE, Turns 50; Interview with Scientists Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL 00:22:29 The Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) turns 50 this month! On June 9, 1972, the facility's powerful proton linear accelerator reached an astounding 800 mega electron volts. Celebrate this milestone anniversary with a new episode of the National Security Science podcast, which highlights the various ways this multipurpose facility supports the Lab's important national security work. First up, National Security Science writer Jill Gibson interviews Los Alamos scientist Anna Llobet Megias, who has spent a significant part of her career using LANSCE for cutting-edge science. Next, the NSS team tours some of the LANSCE facilities with LANSCE Director Michael Furlanetto. And lastly, we dive into history with an excerpt from a 1983 article by “the father of LANSCE,” Louis Rosen. The Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) turns 50 this month! On June 9, 1972, the facility's powerful proton linear accelerator reached an astounding 800 mega electron volts. Celebrate this milestone anniversary with a new episode of the National Security Science podcast, which highlights the various ways this multipurpose facility supports the Lab's important national security work. First up, National Security Science writer Jill Gibson interviews Los Alamos scientist Anna Llobet Megias, who has spent a significant part of her career using LANSCE for cutting-edge science. Next, the NSS team tours some of the LANSCE facilities with LANSCE Director Michael Furlanetto. And lastly, we dive into history with an excerpt from a 1983 article by “the father of LANSCE,” Louis Rosen. science, nickle-56, proton, lansce, neutron, los alamos, linear accelerator, proton radiography, actinium-225, nuclear enterprise, national security, medical isotopes false full 11 7eaffb58-254e-4a7f-a292-39f81004b894 Space-Proofing Nuclear Detonation Detection Equipment The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-22-24110

Previous title: Cosmic custodians: Los Alamos Scientists make sure nuclear detonation detection equipment can survive space.

]]> Tue, 3 May 2022 22:46:48 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/cosmic-custodians-los-alamos-scientists-make-sure-nuclear-detonation-detection-equipment-can-survive-space-vajlKKQn The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit 

discover.lanl.gov

LA-UR-22-24110

Previous title: Cosmic custodians: Los Alamos Scientists make sure nuclear detonation detection equipment can survive space.

]]> Space-Proofing Nuclear Detonation Detection Equipment Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos 00:17:33 Today we interview three scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory in three different labs to get a glimpse of how instruments used for treaty verification are tested and developed. Instruments must be able to survive a rocket launch and also decades of harsh space weather. Over the years, several international treaties have limited the sizes and locations of nuclear detonations. Most recently, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty—the CTBT—prohibits all nuclear detonations, period. No one is allowed to set off a nuclear device anywhere—not underground, not underwater, not on the Earth’s surface or atmosphere, and not even in outer space. President Bill Clinton signed the CTBT in 1996, and although the United States has not ratified the treaty, it has maintained a unilateral moratorium on nuclear testing since 1992. But what about other countries? How do we know if they’re playing by the rules? The short answer is that the United States has the tools—many of them developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory in conjunction with Sandia National Laboratories and other entities—to detect nuclear explosions anywhere in, on, or above the world, at any time. One way Los Alamos does this is by developing specialized sensing instruments that live on satellites and are able to detect and measure the products of a nuclear explosion. At high altitudes and in outer space, the most easily detected products are x-rays, gamma rays, and neutrons. At lower altitudes, these products interact with the atmosphere and produce detectable optical and radio signatures. If certain levels of products are detected in the right proportions, the ground systems analyzing the sensor data can definitively identify a nuclear blast, estimate where and when it occurred, and gauge how big it was. So now we come to today’s topic; surviving space. Today we interview three scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory in three different labs to get a glimpse of how instruments used for treaty verification are tested and developed. Instruments must be able to survive a rocket launch and also decades of harsh space weather. Over the years, several international treaties have limited the sizes and locations of nuclear detonations. Most recently, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty—the CTBT—prohibits all nuclear detonations, period. No one is allowed to set off a nuclear device anywhere—not underground, not underwater, not on the Earth’s surface or atmosphere, and not even in outer space. President Bill Clinton signed the CTBT in 1996, and although the United States has not ratified the treaty, it has maintained a unilateral moratorium on nuclear testing since 1992. But what about other countries? How do we know if they’re playing by the rules? The short answer is that the United States has the tools—many of them developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory in conjunction with Sandia National Laboratories and other entities—to detect nuclear explosions anywhere in, on, or above the world, at any time. One way Los Alamos does this is by developing specialized sensing instruments that live on satellites and are able to detect and measure the products of a nuclear explosion. At high altitudes and in outer space, the most easily detected products are x-rays, gamma rays, and neutrons. At lower altitudes, these products interact with the atmosphere and produce detectable optical and radio signatures. If certain levels of products are detected in the right proportions, the ground systems analyzing the sensor data can definitively identify a nuclear blast, estimate where and when it occurred, and gauge how big it was. So now we come to today’s topic; surviving space. science, treaty, laboratory, nuclear detonation detection, nonproliferation, treaty verification, engineering, los alamos, global security, neutrons, gamma rays, threat reduction false full 10 7e1676ea-8ead-4821-b39a-15d585433022 Rocket Launch at White Sands Missile Range The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit discover.lanl.gov. 

 

LA-UR-21-32253

Previous title: Launching Partnerships: Behind the scenes of a rocket launch

]]> Tue, 4 Jan 2022 22:58:34 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/launching-partnerships-behind-the-scenes-of-a-rocket-launch-ooqlODtp The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

For more Los Alamos stories, visit discover.lanl.gov. 

 

LA-UR-21-32253

Previous title: Launching Partnerships: Behind the scenes of a rocket launch

]]> Rocket Launch at White Sands Missile Range Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab 00:21:23 In this episode of the podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a rocket launch. This particular flight test is part of the Stockpile Responsiveness Program, which helps develop technology and talent that will modernize the nation’s nuclear stockpile. In this episode of the podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a rocket launch. This particular flight test is part of the Stockpile Responsiveness Program, which helps develop technology and talent that will modernize the nation’s nuclear stockpile. science, payload, stockpile stewardship, los alamos, white sands missile range, spaceport america, rocket, satellite, stockpile false full 9 c26c4607-3c35-4390-83ba-13ae7f243f46 Holiday Special! 1964 Holiday Poem from "The Atom" The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Sciencemagazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

ReadNational Security Sciencemagazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

LA-UR-21-32455

 

Podcast artwork: 46680597© Elenadesigner | Dreamstime.com

Previous title: Holiday special featuring a 1964 holiday poem from "The Atom"

 

]]> Wed, 22 Dec 2021 20:39:56 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/holiday-special-featuring-a-1964-christmas-poem-from-the-atom-cDimQrM3 The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Sciencemagazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

ReadNational Security Sciencemagazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

LA-UR-21-32455

 

Podcast artwork: 46680597© Elenadesigner | Dreamstime.com

Previous title: Holiday special featuring a 1964 holiday poem from "The Atom"

 

]]> Holiday Special! 1964 Holiday Poem from "The Atom" Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos 00:07:49 Long before National Security Science magazine existed, Los Alamos published a monthly magazine called "The Atom". In this episode of the podcast, the National Security Science magazine team wishes subscribers happy holidays and reads a poem out of The Atom’s December 1964 issue called, “Merry Christmas and all that stuff.” Long before National Security Science magazine existed, Los Alamos published a monthly magazine called "The Atom". In this episode of the podcast, the National Security Science magazine team wishes subscribers happy holidays and reads a poem out of The Atom’s December 1964 issue called, “Merry Christmas and all that stuff.” science, 1960’s, holiday science podcast, los alamos national laboratory, the atom false full 8 8ae14a9d-145a-41c4-8c79-55b3cfb46fc0 Oscar Seborer, Manhattan Project Spy, Confirmed in 2019 It’s been long known that Klaus Fuchs, Theodore Hall, and David Greenglass committed espionage at Project Y—the Los Alamos branch of the Manhattan Project—during World War II. Each worked at the secret laboratory charged with creating the world’s first atomic bombs, each stole classified weapons information, and each shared it with the Soviet Union. Just recently though, in September 2019, historians confirmed a fourth wartime spy: Oscar Seborer.

In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, National Security Science writer Weston Phippen talks to Los Alamos National Laboratory senior historian Alan Carr about Seborer’s time at Los Alamos and the spy’s possible contributions to the Soviet nuclear weapons program. 

For more on Seborer at Los Alamos, make sure to read this article in the summer 2021 issue of National Security Science magazine.

The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Illustration for this episode's artwork: Los Alamos National Laboratory/Brenda Fleming

LA-UR-21-28652

Previous title: The fourth atomic spy

]]> Thu, 9 Sep 2021 19:12:20 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/the-fourth-atomic-spy-eKQOI7tM It’s been long known that Klaus Fuchs, Theodore Hall, and David Greenglass committed espionage at Project Y—the Los Alamos branch of the Manhattan Project—during World War II. Each worked at the secret laboratory charged with creating the world’s first atomic bombs, each stole classified weapons information, and each shared it with the Soviet Union. Just recently though, in September 2019, historians confirmed a fourth wartime spy: Oscar Seborer.

In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, National Security Science writer Weston Phippen talks to Los Alamos National Laboratory senior historian Alan Carr about Seborer’s time at Los Alamos and the spy’s possible contributions to the Soviet nuclear weapons program. 

For more on Seborer at Los Alamos, make sure to read this article in the summer 2021 issue of National Security Science magazine.

The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Illustration for this episode's artwork: Los Alamos National Laboratory/Brenda Fleming

LA-UR-21-28652

Previous title: The fourth atomic spy

]]> Oscar Seborer, Manhattan Project Spy, Confirmed in 2019 Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL 00:20:07 It’s been long known that Klaus Fuchs, Theodore Hall, and David Greenglass committed espionage at Project Y—the Los Alamos branch of the Manhattan Project—during World War II. Each worked at the secret laboratory charged with creating the world’s first atomic bombs, each stole classified weapons information, and each shared it with the Soviet Union. Just recently though, in September 2019, historians confirmed a fourth wartime spy: Oscar Seborer. In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, National Security Science writer Weston Phippen talks to Los Alamos National Laboratory senior historian Alan Carr about Seborer’s time at Los Alamos and the spy’s possible contributions to the Soviet nuclear weapons program. For more on Seborer at Los Alamos, make sure to read this article in the summer 2021 issue of National Security Science magazine. It’s been long known that Klaus Fuchs, Theodore Hall, and David Greenglass committed espionage at Project Y—the Los Alamos branch of the Manhattan Project—during World War II. Each worked at the secret laboratory charged with creating the world’s first atomic bombs, each stole classified weapons information, and each shared it with the Soviet Union. Just recently though, in September 2019, historians confirmed a fourth wartime spy: Oscar Seborer. In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, National Security Science writer Weston Phippen talks to Los Alamos National Laboratory senior historian Alan Carr about Seborer’s time at Los Alamos and the spy’s possible contributions to the Soviet nuclear weapons program. For more on Seborer at Los Alamos, make sure to read this article in the summer 2021 issue of National Security Science magazine. world war ii, manhattan project, spy, nuclear, atomic, project y, soviet union, espionage, bombs false full 7 ee26c6e0-3d3d-4f71-9a7d-f2cb15119024 First Atomic Bomb; Trinity Test 1945 & Today The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons programs—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, on the 76th anniversary of the Trinity test, we examine the test from two angles: from 1945, when the test occurred, and from 2021, when a group of Los Alamos employees traveled to the Trinity site to tour ground zero and the surrounding area.

Previous title: The Trinity Test: Then & Now

 

]]> Fri, 16 Jul 2021 03:37:39 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/trinity-revisted-Jj8ceeK_ The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons programs—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, on the 76th anniversary of the Trinity test, we examine the test from two angles: from 1945, when the test occurred, and from 2021, when a group of Los Alamos employees traveled to the Trinity site to tour ground zero and the surrounding area.

Previous title: The Trinity Test: Then & Now

 

]]> First Atomic Bomb; Trinity Test 1945 & Today Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL 00:15:51 On July 16, 1945, a predawn thunderstorm moved through the desert near Alamogordo, New Mexico, about 120 miles south of Albuquerque. After it passed, at 5:29:45 a.m., detonators ignited explosives around a large, steel, globe-shaped device on a 100-foot tower. The explosion prompted a fission chain reaction in the plutonium inside the globe. The resulting nuclear blast from the Gadget, as the device was called, released an explosive force of 21 kilotons (equivalent to 21 thousand tons of TNT). It created a blinding flash of light, a thunderous sound, and a mushroom cloud 38,000 feet tall. “Some people claim to have wondered at the time about the future of mankind,” remembered physicist Norris Bradbury of witnessing the event. “I didn’t. We were at war, and the damned thing worked.” This was the Trinity test, the culmination of 27 months of work at Project Y—a secret laboratory in Los Alamos—to create the world’s first atomic bomb. In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, on the 76th anniversary of the Trinity test, we examine the test from two angles: from 1945, when the test occurred, and from 2021, when a group of Los Alamos employees traveled to the Trinity site to tour ground zero and the surrounding area. On July 16, 1945, a predawn thunderstorm moved through the desert near Alamogordo, New Mexico, about 120 miles south of Albuquerque. After it passed, at 5:29:45 a.m., detonators ignited explosives around a large, steel, globe-shaped device on a 100-foot tower. The explosion prompted a fission chain reaction in the plutonium inside the globe. The resulting nuclear blast from the Gadget, as the device was called, released an explosive force of 21 kilotons (equivalent to 21 thousand tons of TNT). It created a blinding flash of light, a thunderous sound, and a mushroom cloud 38,000 feet tall. “Some people claim to have wondered at the time about the future of mankind,” remembered physicist Norris Bradbury of witnessing the event. “I didn’t. We were at war, and the damned thing worked.” This was the Trinity test, the culmination of 27 months of work at Project Y—a secret laboratory in Los Alamos—to create the world’s first atomic bomb. In this episode of the National Security Science podcast, on the 76th anniversary of the Trinity test, we examine the test from two angles: from 1945, when the test occurred, and from 2021, when a group of Los Alamos employees traveled to the Trinity site to tour ground zero and the surrounding area. trinity, alamogordo, trinity site, trinity test, white sands missile range false full 6 f13f9482-a86b-4698-979b-044a1e084334 Mary Tsingou, 1950s Coding Expert; Holiday Special The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode, siblings Joel and Candace Vargas siblings sing about some of the Laboratory's earliest computers. Read more about the Vargas siblings in “Math and music run in this family” in the winter 2020 issue of the National Security Science magazine. Read “Computing on the Mesa” for a comprehensive history of computing at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

The bulk of this podcast features mathematician Mary Tsingou (now Mary Tsingou Menzel). In the 1950s, Tsingou programmed the MANIAC computer to solve a problem that Enrico Fermi, John Pasta, and Stan Ulam came up with—their famous vibrating string experiment. She went on to become a coding expert, working on many Los Alamos projects during her accomplished 30-year career. Today, she and her husband still live in Los Alamos, and in May of 2020, she talked with NSS writer Virginia Grant about her work at the Laboratory. Read the full story, “We thank Miss Mary Tsingou” in the winter 2020 issue of the National Security Science magazine.

Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork:  Dreamstime ID 60149534 Romolo Tavini

 

LA-UR-20-30482

Previous title: Holiday special featuring Mary Tsingou

]]> Thu, 24 Dec 2020 00:21:49 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/holiday-special-featuring-mary-tsingou-B1NZmykx The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode, siblings Joel and Candace Vargas siblings sing about some of the Laboratory's earliest computers. Read more about the Vargas siblings in “Math and music run in this family” in the winter 2020 issue of the National Security Science magazine. Read “Computing on the Mesa” for a comprehensive history of computing at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

The bulk of this podcast features mathematician Mary Tsingou (now Mary Tsingou Menzel). In the 1950s, Tsingou programmed the MANIAC computer to solve a problem that Enrico Fermi, John Pasta, and Stan Ulam came up with—their famous vibrating string experiment. She went on to become a coding expert, working on many Los Alamos projects during her accomplished 30-year career. Today, she and her husband still live in Los Alamos, and in May of 2020, she talked with NSS writer Virginia Grant about her work at the Laboratory. Read the full story, “We thank Miss Mary Tsingou” in the winter 2020 issue of the National Security Science magazine.

Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork:  Dreamstime ID 60149534 Romolo Tavini

 

LA-UR-20-30482

Previous title: Holiday special featuring Mary Tsingou

]]> Mary Tsingou, 1950s Coding Expert; Holiday Special Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos 00:07:30 In this special holiday mini-podcast, siblings and Lab employees Joel and Candace Vargas sing Christmas-themed intro to a conversation between writer Virginia Grant and Mary Tsingou Menzel. In the 1950s, Tsingou learned to program one of Los Alamos’ earliest computers, the MANIAC. She went on to become a coding expert and worked for Los Alamos for more than 30 years. In this special holiday mini-podcast, siblings and Lab employees Joel and Candace Vargas sing Christmas-themed intro to a conversation between writer Virginia Grant and Mary Tsingou Menzel. In the 1950s, Tsingou learned to program one of Los Alamos’ earliest computers, the MANIAC. She went on to become a coding expert and worked for Los Alamos for more than 30 years. vibrating string, los alamos national laboratory, programming, computers, coding, mary tsingou, computing, maniac, national security, 1950s false full 4 981597cc-2e37-43f1-903b-7b9e92a56091 Nuclear Warhead Ohio-Class Submarine Patrol The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode, Naval officer-turned-Laboratory employee Mark Levin recounts his time on board the USS Nebraska. "I order one prolonged blast on the ship’s whistle and we are underway, embarking on a 10-week strategic deterrence mission. Carrying 24 Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) armed with Los Alamos–designed nuclear warheads, the Nebraska will prowl the depths of the ocean, its exact location unknown to everyone but its crew. Our mission is to remain hidden at sea with our SLBMs, so as to deter a nuclear attack on the United States by demonstrating to other countries that the United States has an assured second-strike capability—a survivable system for carrying out a retaliatory nuclear attack."

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork: U.S. Department of Defense

LA-UR-20-24937

Previous title: Salt Life: Go on patrol with an Ohio-class submarine that's ready to launch nuclear warheads at a moment’s notice.


 

]]> Fri, 14 Aug 2020 20:35:23 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/salt-life-go-on-patrol-with-an-ohio-class-submarine-thats-ready-to-launch-nuclear-warheads-at-a-moments-notice-zAm7RKOT The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode, Naval officer-turned-Laboratory employee Mark Levin recounts his time on board the USS Nebraska. "I order one prolonged blast on the ship’s whistle and we are underway, embarking on a 10-week strategic deterrence mission. Carrying 24 Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) armed with Los Alamos–designed nuclear warheads, the Nebraska will prowl the depths of the ocean, its exact location unknown to everyone but its crew. Our mission is to remain hidden at sea with our SLBMs, so as to deter a nuclear attack on the United States by demonstrating to other countries that the United States has an assured second-strike capability—a survivable system for carrying out a retaliatory nuclear attack."

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork: U.S. Department of Defense

LA-UR-20-24937

Previous title: Salt Life: Go on patrol with an Ohio-class submarine that's ready to launch nuclear warheads at a moment’s notice.


 

]]> Nuclear Warhead Ohio-Class Submarine Patrol Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos 00:18:57 Ohio-class submarines disappear into the ocean for 70 days at a time, carrying 155 sailors, 24 nuclear-armed missiles, and more hot sauce than your local taqueria. Retired Naval officer Mark Levin gives a firsthand account. Ohio-class submarines disappear into the ocean for 70 days at a time, carrying 155 sailors, 24 nuclear-armed missiles, and more hot sauce than your local taqueria. Retired Naval officer Mark Levin gives a firsthand account. science, ohio-class submarine, nuclear triad, nuclear submarine, laboratory, nuclear bomb, nuclear weapon, military, national security, navy, deterrence false full 3 3c8ba0d3-5254-42c1-9342-6083dcd9b230 Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Glory Trip The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In the summer of 2018, Major Nicholas Edwards was the weapons officer for 576th Flight Test Squadron, the sole group charged with test launching the Minuteman III, the military’s only ground-based nuclear ICBM. These occasional tests, called glory trips, are always done at Vandenberg Air Force Base and are the most exhilarating moments in any missileer’s career.

A glory trip is similar in every way to a real nuclear missile launch, except that the missile’s Los Alamos–designed W78 warhead has been replaced with a joint test assembly (JTA)—also designed and built by the Lab—that replicates a W78 in every way except that it’s filled with sensors, not a nuclear device. The JTA endures the freezing limits of outer space as it exits the atmosphere atop the missile, and after it has dislodged from the ICBM, it endures the molten heat of fall to Earth like a meteor, all the while relaying important flight information to the control center at Vandenberg.

Now that the Minuteman III system is 50 years old, nearing the end of its shelf life, these tests have become more important than ever. In fact, the government planned to retire the system in 2020, but Congress extended its service for another 10 years, at which point a replacement system will be deployed. So until then, the United States randomly picks four Minuteman III missiles annually to test from its stockpile, then compiles the data to share with the military and the Lab. “These glory trips give us a lot of information we can’t get otherwise, and in that way, they’re very useful,” says Jay Pepin, the W78 Systems Engineering group leader at Los Alamos.

There’s also the national defense angle. “Not only do these tests warn us if there are any issues that need to be addressed with the weapon,” says retired Air Force Colonel Michael Port, a former missileer who’s now director of the Lab’s Office of Nuclear and Military Affairs, “they also show our adversaries that we’re still quite capable of using our Minuteman III system, despite its age.”

Read article, "A moment of glory" here. 

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork: U.S. Air Force/Thomas Barley

LA-UR-20-24189

Previous title: A moment of glory: testing the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile

]]> Mon, 27 Jul 2020 20:07:05 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/a-moment-of-glory-KPB4Ez4b The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In the summer of 2018, Major Nicholas Edwards was the weapons officer for 576th Flight Test Squadron, the sole group charged with test launching the Minuteman III, the military’s only ground-based nuclear ICBM. These occasional tests, called glory trips, are always done at Vandenberg Air Force Base and are the most exhilarating moments in any missileer’s career.

A glory trip is similar in every way to a real nuclear missile launch, except that the missile’s Los Alamos–designed W78 warhead has been replaced with a joint test assembly (JTA)—also designed and built by the Lab—that replicates a W78 in every way except that it’s filled with sensors, not a nuclear device. The JTA endures the freezing limits of outer space as it exits the atmosphere atop the missile, and after it has dislodged from the ICBM, it endures the molten heat of fall to Earth like a meteor, all the while relaying important flight information to the control center at Vandenberg.

Now that the Minuteman III system is 50 years old, nearing the end of its shelf life, these tests have become more important than ever. In fact, the government planned to retire the system in 2020, but Congress extended its service for another 10 years, at which point a replacement system will be deployed. So until then, the United States randomly picks four Minuteman III missiles annually to test from its stockpile, then compiles the data to share with the military and the Lab. “These glory trips give us a lot of information we can’t get otherwise, and in that way, they’re very useful,” says Jay Pepin, the W78 Systems Engineering group leader at Los Alamos.

There’s also the national defense angle. “Not only do these tests warn us if there are any issues that need to be addressed with the weapon,” says retired Air Force Colonel Michael Port, a former missileer who’s now director of the Lab’s Office of Nuclear and Military Affairs, “they also show our adversaries that we’re still quite capable of using our Minuteman III system, despite its age.”

Read article, "A moment of glory" here. 

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork: U.S. Air Force/Thomas Barley

LA-UR-20-24189

Previous title: A moment of glory: testing the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile

]]> Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Glory Trip Los Alamos National Laboratory, LANL, Los Alamos National Lab, Los Alamos 00:23:49 The knowledge gained from testing the Minuteman III system has become more important than ever—even when things don't go as planned. The knowledge gained from testing the Minuteman III system has become more important than ever—even when things don't go as planned. science, nuclear triad, nuclear, airplane, laboratory, nuclear bomb, nuclear weapon, minute man iii, military, national security, military national security air force, air force, deterrence false full 2 ddef8e06-650c-412e-847b-7df3293428ce B-2 Bomber Pilot Perspective on Flying Nuclear Weapons The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode, Los Alamos senior Air Force Fellow and B-2 pilot Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Steeves reads “A wealth of stealth,” a feature article that appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of the magazine. Steeves shares what it’s like to fly the B-2, a 31-year-old, 160,000-pound nuclear-capable bomber. B-2s are the only U.S. bombers currently capable of dropping a nuclear weapon, and most of the nuclear weapons a B-2 can carry were designed and are maintained at Los Alamos National Laboratory. 

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork: U.S. Air Force/Thomas Barley

LA-UR-20-24189

Previous title: A wealth of stealth: An inside perspective on flying the B-2 Spirit bomber


 

]]> Tue, 9 Jun 2020 21:30:55 +0000 bfleming@lanl.gov (Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos) https://national-security-science-podcast-d185212a.simplecast.com/episodes/awealthofstealth-gbtDTBLD The National Security Science podcast is a spin-off of National Security Science magazine at Los Alamos National Laboratory. We bring you stories from the Lab’s Weapons Program—stories that show how innovative science and engineering are the key to keeping America safe. Or, as we like to say, better science equals better security.

In this episode, Los Alamos senior Air Force Fellow and B-2 pilot Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Steeves reads “A wealth of stealth,” a feature article that appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of the magazine. Steeves shares what it’s like to fly the B-2, a 31-year-old, 160,000-pound nuclear-capable bomber. B-2s are the only U.S. bombers currently capable of dropping a nuclear weapon, and most of the nuclear weapons a B-2 can carry were designed and are maintained at Los Alamos National Laboratory. 

Read National Security Science magazine online here. Request a print copy or provide feedback by emailing magazine@lanl.gov.

Photo for this episode's artwork: U.S. Air Force/Thomas Barley

LA-UR-20-24189

Previous title: A wealth of stealth: An inside perspective on flying the B-2 Spirit bomber


 

]]> B-2 Bomber Pilot Perspective on Flying Nuclear Weapons Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Lab, LANL, Los Alamos 00:16:41 Los Alamos Air Force Fellow and B-2 pilot Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Steeves reads “A wealth of stealth,” a feature article that appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of National Security Science magazine. Steeves shares what it’s like to fly the B-2, a 31-year-old, 160,000-pound nuclear-capable bomber. Los Alamos Air Force Fellow and B-2 pilot Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey Steeves reads “A wealth of stealth,” a feature article that appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of National Security Science magazine. Steeves shares what it’s like to fly the B-2, a 31-year-old, 160,000-pound nuclear-capable bomber. science, nuclear deterrence, nuclear triad, airplane, laboratory, nuclear bomb, b-2, nuclear weapon, military, stealth bomber, national security, pilot, air force false full 1