Subcritical Experiments/U1a Complex
The underground U1a Complex is the location for subcritical
experiments. Subcritical experiments are physics experiments that obtain
technical information to help the National Laboratories maintain the
safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile.
The U1a Complex is an underground laboratory consisting of horizontal
tunnels, each about one half mile in length, where experiments
supporting the nation's nuclear stockpile are conducted. The U1a Complex
is mined at the base of a vertical shaft approximately 960-feet below
ground surface. The vertical shaft is equipped with a mechanical hoist
for personnel and equipment access while another vertical shaft, about
1,000 feet away, provides cross ventilation, instrumentation and utility
access, and emergency exits.
Refer to the following Fact Sheet for more information:
Subcritical Experiments at
the U1a Complex [PDF, 316 KB]
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