The Nevada Test Site (NTS), 65 miles north of Las Vegas, was one of the most significant nuclear weapons test sites in the United States. Nuclear testing, both atmospheric and underground, occurred here between 1951 and 1992. After World War II, the U.S. government established the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to monitor the peacetime development of atomic science and technology. The 1950s became a period of rapid expansion for U.S atomic weapons. Fear of the Soviet Union increasing its atomic weapons and the belief that building up nuclear arms could help establish U.S. power contributed to this rapid expansion.
During the early years of the atomic age, people actually flocked to Las Vegas in hopes of seeing an atomic bomb test, and hotels in town were more than happy to provide atomic viewing points on the roofs of their establishments. Of course, given the size and magnitude of a nuclear explosion, people could see them from just about anywhere in town, even while enjoying a day at the pool.
In 1950, the AEC considered many sites for U.S. nuclear weapons development and effects testing. They then selected the Las Vegas Bombing and Gunnery Range. On December 18, 1950, President Harry Truman authorized the establishment of a 680 square mile portion of the Range as the Nevada Proving Ground. Under the authority of President Truman, the AEC then designated and managed this land. In 1955, the name of the site was changed to the Nevada Test Site. Over time, the site rapidly grew in size. The NTS acquired more land for testing in… read more >
