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Advanced Simulation & Computing

Established in 1995, the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASC) Program supports the U.S. Defense Programs' shift in emphasis from test-based confidence to simulation-based confidence. Under ASC, computer simulation capabilities are developed to analyze and predict the performance, safety, and reliability of nuclear weapons and to certify their functionality.

As part of NNSA's mission to extend the lifetime of nuclear weapons in the stockpile, the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASC) Campaign provides NNSA with leading edge, high-end simulation capabilities.  The ASC program helps NNSA to meet nuclear weapons assessment and certification requirements, including: weapon codes, weapon science, computing platforms, and supporting infrastructure.


NNSA's three national laboratories house some of the world's fastest supercomputers: Roadrunner, Cielo, BlueGene/L, Dawn/Sequoia, and RedStorm.  

ASC simulations are central to U.S. national security, as they provide a computational surrogate for nuclear testing.  NNSA's ability to model the extraordinary complexity of nuclear weapons systems is essential to establish confidence in the performance of our aging stockpile.  ASC tools enable nuclear weapons scientists and engineers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the entire weapons lifecycle from design to safe processes for dismantlement. Also, through close coordination with other government agencies, ASC tools also play an important role in supporting nonproliferation efforts, emergency response, and nuclear forensics.

 

Related Links:

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's ASC Program off site link
Los Alamos National Laboratory's ASC Program off site link
Sandia National Laboratories' ASC Program off site link