were planned for execution under favorable atmospheric conditions to
minimize the likelihood of contamination of land surfaces.
In addition,
following each event, ground and aerial monitors surveyed the island
to determine whether any radioactive rain-out occurred,
A Hazards Evaluation Unit composed of scientific personnel of
contractor laboratories (Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, Los Alamos
Scientific Laboratory, Sandia Corporation) and representatives of the
U. S. Weather Bureau was organized to advise the Commander of the Joint
Task Force and the Scientific Deputy.
for each detonation.
Pre-shot computations were made
These computations included a fallout trajectory
forecast for the surface, 10,000, 20,000 and 30,000 feet winds out to
12 to 24 hours, and a predicted radiation exclusion area based upon predicted winds.
Where applicable, other weapons phenomena were considered
such as blast pressures ,/possible eye injuries from the prompt thermal
radiation
Cloud tracking aircraft made ‘and maintained contact for several
hours with the radioactive cloud following each event conducted in the
lower atmosphere.
Timely information on cloud movement, top and base
altitudes were prepared for use of advisory regarding opening of conmmercial air lanes through or near the announced danger area.
no evidence
There was
that ary commercial aircraft encountered any of these radio-
active clouds.
Off-Site Monitoring
The Off-Site monitoring program during Operation Dominic was under
the cognizance of the U. S. Public Health Service, USPHS personnel
being assigned to JIF-8 during the operational phase.
The program
Gl