NUKEMAP

What is NUKEMAP?

NUKEMAP is a nuclear weapons effects simulator developed by nuclear historian Alex Wellerstein at the Stevens Institute of Technology. The tool allows users to simulate nuclear detonations anywhere on Earth using various yield sizes and weapon types from historical arsenals. It calculates and displays multiple effects including fireball radius, radiation zones, thermal radiation, and blast damage areas. The simulator uses declassified nuclear weapons effects data combined with modern mapping technology to create scientifically-grounded visualizations of nuclear explosions and their consequences. Since its launch in 2012, NUKEMAP has been used by millions of people worldwide for educational purposes, policy discussions, and public awareness about nuclear weapons.

Main Features of NUKEMAP

1. Interactive map interface with worldwide coverage

2. Multiple preset nuclear weapons options from historical arsenals

3. Customizable yield settings

4. Detailed effects calculations including:

- Fireball radius

- Thermal radiation zones

- Air blast damage radii

- Fallout patterns (for surface detonations)

- Casualty estimates based on local population data

5. Multiple detonation capability

6. Options for airburst or surface burst detonations

7. Detailed information about each effect type

8. Ability to save and share scenarios

9. Mobile device compatibility

10. Educational resources and historical context

Use Cases of NUKEMAP

1. Educational Applications:

- Teaching students about nuclear weapons effects

- Illustrating historical nuclear events

- Supporting physics and engineering education

2. Research Purposes:

- Analyzing potential nuclear scenarios

- Studying urban planning and civil defense

- Supporting academic research in security studies

3. Policy Analysis:

- Informing nuclear policy discussions

- Assessing civil defense planning

- Supporting emergency preparedness efforts

4. Public Awareness:

- Promoting understanding of nuclear weapons effects

- Supporting disarmament advocacy

- Illustrating the scale of nuclear threats

Common Questions about NUKEMAP

1. Is NUKEMAP's data accurate?

The simulator uses declassified nuclear weapons effects data and accepted scientific models, making it reasonably accurate for educational purposes.

2. Can anyone use NUKEMAP?

Yes, it's freely accessible to the public through any web browser.

3. Is using NUKEMAP legal?

Yes, the tool uses publicly available information and is designed for educational purposes.

4. How are casualty estimates calculated?

Estimates use local population density data combined with effects radii.

5. Can NUKEMAP be used offline?

No, it requires an internet connection to access Google Maps and perform calculations.

6. Are the effects shown in real-time?

Calculations are performed instantly, but the tool is a simulation, not a real-time monitoring system.