Electromagnetic pulse from nuclear explosions

The effect of the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) accompanying a nuclear explosion on electronic equipment is presented largely in the form of examples of damage to equipment during nuclear test explosions. The range of such effects is related to the height above the ground at which the explosion takes place. Electric fields and currents generated by EMP in a number of tests, as measured or estimated at various distances are cited. Underground explosions only give EMP over short distances, less than 30 km, while the EMP from conventional explosions is weak and has no significance for electronic equipment. (JIW)