Short Wave Seen Any Nazi Uranium? These Researchers Want To Know
Oct 25, 2019
Discover the gripping tale of a physicist's urgent call that leads to a mysterious uranium discovery linked to Nazi nuclear ambitions. Uncover the historical significance of a uranium cube found in a suburb and its connection to a forgotten reactor project. Delve into Nazi Germany's fragmented scientific pursuits compared to the Manhattan Project's strategy. The discussion raises ethical questions about handling dangerous materials while highlighting the profound legacy of nuclear power. Join the exploration of this fascinating intersection of history and science.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
The Mysterious Uranium Cube
- Physicist Timothy Koeth received a mysterious call from a friend who wanted to show him something.
- The friend revealed a uranium cube wrapped in a note saying, "Gift of Nininger, a piece of uranium from the reactor Hitler tried to build."
Nazi Nuclear Goals
- The cube was a part of Nazi Germany's attempt to build a nuclear reactor, not a bomb.
- They aimed to use the reactor for powering battleships and submarines.
The Uranium Chandelier
- The B-8 reactor used 664 uranium cubes suspended by aircraft cables, resembling a chandelier.
- This "chandelier" was submerged in heavy water to initiate a nuclear chain reaction.