Orford Ness Pagoda

3D Model

The vibration testing laboratories built in 1960 for testing Blue Streak intermediate range ballistic missiles, were never used for this purpose but instead carried out environmental conditions testing on the WE177A tactical atomic weapon and early Polaris submarine launched ballistic missiles. Nuclear material was not tested at the site, but rather attention focused on the integrity of weapon casings and the impact on the conventional explosive element of nuclear munitions of the extreme environments of launch, flight and delivery.

Each laboratory is semi subterranean, built of steel reinforced concrete, revetted on two sides and its roof capped with shingle to provide additional substance to the structure. Internally the buildings are complex with multiple levels, passageways and service areas linked by narrow stairways. The central chamber served as the focus for testing.

Link to publication: https://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/doi/10.1680/jenhh.24.00005