Nevada Test Site - Nevada
Exploratography Date: November 3 of 2013
I was in Nevada, driving south on I-95, probably about an hour north of Las Vegas, when I passed one of those big Nevada State Historic Signs. I caught the words “test site” as I was speeding by and when I realized what it was referring to, I headed back to get a closer look.
“Testing of weapons for defense and for peaceful uses of nuclear explosives is conducted here. The nation’s principal nuclear explosives testing laboratory is located within this 1,350-square-mile, geologically complex area in the isolated valleys of Jackass, Yucca and Frenchman Flats. Selected as on-continent test site in 1950, the first test took place on Frenchman Flat in January, 1951.
Archeological studies of the NTS area have revealed continuous occupation by prehistoric man from about 9,500 years ago. Several prehistoric cultures are represented. The last aboriginal group to occupy the site was the Southern Paiute, who foraged plant foods in season and occupied the area until the coming of the pioneers”
An interesting fact not posted on the sign is that between 1951 and 1992, a total of nine hundred and twenty-eight documented atmospheric and underground nuclear tests occurred here at the Test Site. I think the key word in that statement might be “documented.” I wonder how many tests actually happened.
The “town” of Mercury can be seen off in the distance, it was built to house Test Site workers and is off limits to everyone else, so don’t even think about trying to get there. And way out past the outpost are 1,350 square miles of wilderness, the site of our first nuclear tests, as well as the infamous “Area 51.”
The turnout is as close to the test site area as the public can get, so pull off and take a picture. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that while you’re there reading the sign, someone is watching you on surveillance equipment. Smile at the camera!
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