On 19 Dec. Mr. Batzeil of LRL sent a TWX to Gen. Betts on the subject of
the desirability and feasability of pursuing the Christmas Tree concept
which Betts had earlier requested comments on. Mr. Batzel goes into some
of the details of the desirability of having tunnels for improved diagnostics
on detonations as opposed to using just holes, and he discusses some of the
engineering problems and stemming problems involved in both holes and tunnels.
As to a recommendation about pursuing the Christmas Tree concept he states
"In the light of our existing experience, LRL also has reservations about
the feasibility and desirability of starting construction of a Christmas
Tree facility at this time. As we gain more experience about the problems
of stemming, radii of damage, and the effects of geology, we will be in a
position to make a firm recommendation." On the question of outer space
testing, Batzel states that LRL believes it is very important to develop
a@ capability to diagnose nuclear tests in space and that an effort should
be made to establish this capability. Further, LRL believes that it is
urgent that the techniques for diagnosing and instrumenting such tests
be checked out during the forthcoming atmospheric series.
7™
Important TWX from Batzel to Betts on 19 Dec. discus
ses success (and lack of)
ith tunnel containment to date; relation of this
to yield of device.
The feeling
s that testing should use a mix of tunnels and holes,
and new concepts of
ntrances for tunnels, reentry probabilities, etc.
He feels tunnels are
ptinum ways to do extensive diagnostic shots and capabi
lity should be developed.
etween now and May 62, LRL site-limited (due to lack of
tunnel sites} and some
xperiments will be delayed.
Expanding Area 9 hole operations are in effect.
eservations are voiced about feasibility and desirability of “Chris
tmas Tree"
t this time.
Space testing and need to establish capability to diagnose
such
ests is strongly favored.
HP