Types of Burst

The destructive forces associated with a nuclear explosion vary with the location of the point of burst in relation to the surface of the earth.

The main types are:

  • High Altitude Burst. Detonation above 100,000 feet. Destructive forces do not significantly affect the ground. The biggest risk is not radiation to the living things, but electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that effects electronic systems such as communications.
  • Air Burst. The fireball does not touch the ground. Detonation is below 100,000 feet. 
  • Surface Burst. Detonation occurs at or slightly above the actual surface of the earth. The blast kicks up considerable radioactive debris.
  • Sub-surface Burst. Detonation occurs under ground or under water. Depth determines destructive forces on the surface.
Graphic showing position of each of the types of bursts: high altitude, air, surface, and sub-surface