—-
3. Finally, i¢ will be necessary during the year to cond
certain safety tests -~ tests wherein the high explosive is
detonated in an asymmetrical manner to prove that no nuclear
reaction will occur if the weapm, while safed, is subjected tc
fire or accident, and to determine the extent of local contamir
tion which might result from the spread of nuclear material fre
weapons involved in fire or accident.
4, Approximately 25 nuclear shots, together with five or
more safety tests, may be required during the year.
The first
nuclear device would be detonated on or about May 1, 1957, and
is estimated that all nuclear shots would be fired in a period
of the order of five months,
The safety tests, from which no
nuclear reaction is expected, would be fired on an “as needed"
basis throughout the year.
5. The operation would be designated PILGRIM,
So as to
avoid hazard to participants or the public, shots will be limit
in yleld, will be fired only under favorable weather conditions
and will be implaced so as to minimize local fallout to the
maximum extent practical,
Larger shots of the series will be
detonated generally at higher altitudes than those for past
shots of comparable yield.
The expected fallout from such shot
on local communities should be reduced materially thereby.
6, It is not possible at the present moment to specify
exactly what shots are to be fired.
This information is now
being developed by the laboratories who are studying intensive]
the detailed results from REDWING and laying their plans for
PILGRIM.
It is our intention, however, to finalize a schedule
as early as possible and immediately thereafter to request your
approval for the expenditure of the necessary special nuclear
material.
-~4-~
Enclosure "A"