Is it possible to remotely detect a nuclear weapon?

  • Thread starter dimensionless
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Nuclear
In summary, the conversation discusses the difficulty of detecting nuclear weapons and the different methods used for detection. It is mentioned that weapons in storage are harder to detect and spies are often used for this purpose. There are proposals for using advanced technology like neutrino beams for detection, but these are still in the realm of science fiction.
  • #1
dimensionless
462
1
If so, how is it detected? Are hydrogen bombs significantly harder to detect than conventional fission bombs? St what distance can it be detected? Will this range be increased in the future?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Are you referring to pre-detonation detection? Or post?

It, um, makes a difference in the numbers.
 
  • #3
Weapons that are detonated are very easy to detect - blast, fallout, etc. Weapons in storage are much more difficult - spies are probably the best way.
 
  • #4
An extremely quick and painless google search will give you the answer. Just search nuclear weapon detection or something
 
  • #5
Pre-detonation. I imagine a detonation would show up as a seismic event, right?

My google search suggests that nuclear weapons are not easily detected.
 
  • #6
dimensionless said:
Pre-detonation. I imagine a detonation would show up as a seismic event, right?
Well yes. I was thinking more in terms a very rapid rise in temperature into the tens of hundreds of thousands of degrees, and a resulting plasmification of every atom in your body.

Seismic detection would be more ... subtle.
 
  • #7
Apparently there are proposals to send a beam of neutrinos or high energy photons through the Earth into an outgoing sattelite receiver (or tub for neutrinos) or somesuch to detect concentrated fissile material of a specific type. But obviously the logistics are ridiculously complicated and the false positives would be large.

But at this time, proposals like that are nothing more than science fiction.
 
  • #8
Spies, aerial photos, and satellites. Obviously for the developmental/storage stages.
 

1. What is remote detection of a nuclear weapon?

Remote detection of a nuclear weapon refers to the ability to detect the presence of a nuclear weapon without being physically near it. This can be done using various remote sensing technologies, such as satellites, drones, or other surveillance methods.

2. How does remote detection of a nuclear weapon work?

The exact method of remote detection depends on the specific technology used. However, it typically involves detecting specific signatures or characteristics of a nuclear weapon, such as radiation or heat emissions, from a distance.

3. Is it possible to remotely detect a nuclear weapon?

Yes, it is possible to remotely detect a nuclear weapon. While it may be challenging and require advanced technology, many countries and organizations have developed and implemented remote sensing capabilities for nuclear weapon detection.

4. What are the benefits of remotely detecting a nuclear weapon?

Remotely detecting a nuclear weapon can provide valuable information about the presence and location of a potential threat, allowing for early warning and response. It also reduces the risk to individuals who would otherwise need to physically inspect the weapon.

5. Are there any limitations to remote detection of a nuclear weapon?

There are some limitations to remote detection of a nuclear weapon. For example, certain environmental conditions, such as heavy cloud cover or interference from other sources, can make it more difficult to detect a nuclear weapon remotely. Additionally, some detection methods may not be able to accurately distinguish between a nuclear weapon and other sources of radiation.

Similar threads

  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • Science Fiction and Fantasy Media
Replies
15
Views
692
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • General Discussion
Replies
8
Views
873
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
14
Views
3K
Back
Top