The Unexpected Effects of Nukes in Space

In the early 1960s, the US and Soviet Union explored the effects of nuclear explosions in space, leading to the discovery of electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) that could disrupt communications on Earth. This was linked to the Van Allen belts, discovered by James Van Allen, which contain high concentrations of charged particles. The US military conducted high-altitude nuclear tests, including Starfish Prime, which demonstrated the powerful effects of EMPs. These tests raised concerns about the potential for EMPs to disable entire countries, leading to a moratorium on high-altitude nuclear tests.

What was the significance of the Starfish Prime test?

What potential consequences could an EMP attack have on modern society?