Does a nuclear explosion in outer space generate space waste at all?

In summary: Since all the auxiliary parts of the bomb are instantly vaporized, there may be little solid waste left. However, if the vapor does not expand fast enough, or cools quickly, liquids and solids may nucleate again and cause a problem. Another point is that any waste exceeding the escape velocity of Earth will disappear quickly. So what will exactly happen? Is it safe to detonate a nuclear bomb in outer space without jeopardizing the space industry?In summary, the nuclear bomb will destroy everything within a certain radius of the explosion, but any physical waste left behind will quickly disappear.
  • #1
petergreat
267
4
Since all the auxiliary parts of the bomb are instantly vaporized, there may be little solid waste left. However, if the vapor does not expand fast enough, or cools quickly, liquids and solids may nucleate again and cause a problem. Another point is that any waste exceeding the escape velocity of Earth will disappear quickly. So what will exactly happen? Is it safe to detonate a nuclear bomb in outer space without jeopardizing the space industry?
 
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  • #2
Nuclear weapons testing options during the 1960's included the possibility of detonating a nuclear bomb behind the Moon. This would be out of sight (direct electromagnetic pulse) from low-orbit space satellites.

Bob S
 
  • #3
Thanks for that interesting piece of information. I overlooked the fact that EM pulse is also damaging. However, my question is specifically about whether space waste will be generated. Anyone?
 
  • #4
When atmospheric detonations were allowed, in the 60s the US detonated a nuclear weapon at about 400 km above the Earth. This created an artificial belt of trapped electrons, akin to the naturally occurring Van Allen belts. My understanding is that this was a "separate" 3rd belt. It was said to have persisted for over 5 years.
 
  • #5
I do not believe the detonation of a nuke would present a serious hazard in physical matter left behind. Most of the matter would be in single atoms or in molecules which would be spread out over a large area and wouldn't simply collect back together in orbit or anything.
 
  • #6
There has been a detonation in the ionosphere and caused satellites to malfunction and ground communications stopped for a few hours. After this test there has not been any test in space with nuclear bombs because of the damage caused. I don’t know if the missile test on the moon was nuclear but it would be pretty hard to find water if you heat the surface to a few thousand degrees.
TM
 

1. What exactly is "space waste" and how does a nuclear explosion contribute to it?

"Space waste" refers to any debris or man-made objects that are floating in Earth's orbit. A nuclear explosion in outer space can generate space waste by creating a shockwave that can break apart satellites or other objects, as well as producing radioactive materials that can contaminate the surrounding area.

2. How much space waste is typically generated by a nuclear explosion in outer space?

The amount of space waste generated by a nuclear explosion in outer space can vary depending on the size and strength of the explosion. However, even a small explosion can create thousands of pieces of debris that can remain in orbit for years.

3. Can space waste from a nuclear explosion in outer space be cleaned up?

Currently, there is no effective way to clean up space waste from a nuclear explosion in outer space. However, there are discussions and proposals for technologies that could potentially be used in the future to remove space debris.

4. How long does space waste from a nuclear explosion in outer space remain in orbit?

The amount of time that space waste from a nuclear explosion in outer space remains in orbit can vary greatly. Some debris may fall back to Earth relatively quickly, while others can remain in orbit for decades.

5. What are the potential risks or consequences of space waste from a nuclear explosion in outer space?

The space waste generated by a nuclear explosion in outer space can pose a threat to functioning satellites and spacecraft, as well as potentially polluting the environment with radioactive materials. It can also make space travel more hazardous and increase the risk of collisions in Earth's orbit.

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