Going Nuclear in Albuquerque, New Mexico
During a recent visit in Albuquerque, NM, daughter Ingrid suggested that we visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History. This turned out to be a terrific idea.
The museum is located near the intersection of Interstates 25 and 40. The name of the museum suggests that it may cover nuclear science with all its aspects. But the detailed and fascinating exhibits deal with just one part: the origins of nuclear weapons in World War II, the planes and rockets designed for their delivery, and the politics of nuclear threat and intimidation from the end of WW II to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
The exhibits begin with the famous scientists who unraveled the secret of the atom. Next are the fortunately unsuccessful attempts in Germany and Japan to develop a nuclear bomb, and the huge scientific effort in the US that ultimately produced the first nuclear bombs.
The first test bomb, code-named "Gadget," was exploded on a platform July 16, 1945, 250 miles south of Los Alamos, NM. It demonstrated the terrifying power of nuclear bombs. The museum has a mockup of the device.
"Gadget" - first nuclear device exploded |
Casings of atomic bombs "Little Boy" (green) and "Fat Man" (yellow) |
The statistics of the B29 were astonishing at the time of deployment: Crew of 10-14, four 2,200 hp Wright engines, cruise speed 230 mph, ceiling 31,850 ft, range 4,100 miles, payload up to 10 tons of bombs, and a maximum take-off weight of 69 tons.
B29 Superfortress |
The outside display area has several missiles, including one ICBM, and a B52, all produced during that arms race.
The Matador was the first guided missile deployed by the USAF. It is a surface-to-surface missile, deployed in West Germany in 1954. Phaseout began in 1959. With 40 ft length, 6 tons weight, and a range of 700 miles, it looks like a toy when compared with the missiles to come.
Matador - first guided missile, deployed 1954, phaseout began 1959 |
Snark - first and only international cruise missile, deployed 1958-1960 |
The museum has the Titan II ICBM, a 165 ton, liquid-fuel, 110 ft missile operating from silos Arizona, Kansas, and Arkansas. It was deployed from 1963 to 1987.
Titan II ICBM, deployed 1963-1987 |
B52 Superfortress, first deployed 1955, still operational |
For crosswind landings, the landing gear is rotated, the wings stay level, and the pilot sees the runway at an angle when touching down.
B52 landing gear |
Before leaving the museum, I ask the lady at the ticket counter what atom is represented by the intriguing model above the entrance. She answers,"Beryllium."
Model of Beryllium |
So, next time you fly across New Mexico, why not stop in Albuquerque and visit this great museum!
Have any questions or feedback about the Museum of Nuclear Science & Industry? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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