point on the surface of the earth, at or below the center of a nuclear
burst.
LOCATE GROUND ZERO
During nuclear warfare, a commander must obtain a quick, accurate
location of ground zero (GZ) for any nuclear burst. The commander will
use this data in making an estimate of the tactical situation. It is
also used in determining the impact, if any, the burst will have on the
unit or assigned mission.
1.
Locating Ground Zero (GZ)
Determining the location of GZ requires that you
be able to plot
coordinates on a military map, determine azimuths, and
take measurements
of land distance. If you are unfamiliar with these
principles of map
reading or feel you require refresher training in map
reading, refer to
Appendix B, Map Reading, in the Supplemental Booklet.
Nuclear burst data must be obtained and reported to provide information
for determining the location of ground zero and for estimating yield.
The location of GZ of small nuclear bursts may be learned by direct
observation. For larger, or more distant nuclear bursts, the flash-to-
bang time and the azimuth from the observer's position are used to
determine the location of GZ. Headquarters units of field artillery and
air defense artillery battalions and air defense artillery batteries are
generally the most suitable units for the collection and reporting of
nuclear burst data (from the standpoints of battlefield location and
angle-measuring equipment).
Normally, these units will be given this
responsibility. At the discretion of appropriate commanders, other units
may also be designated as collecting and reporting agencies. Normally,
only those units specified in Standing Operation Procedures (SOP) will
make the required measurements and report the data to higher
headquarters.
The following organic optical equipment items, listed
in order
of
preference, are used for nuclear burst surveillance:
Aiming Circle, M2
BC Scopes, M65 or M43
Theodolites, T16 or T2
Pocket Transit Compass, M2
Units designated as reporting units will report flash-to-bang time,
observer location, and azimuth from observer location to the nuclear
burst cloud. It is unlikely that any one unit will be in a position to
obtain all the information specified in the nuclear burst report format;
however, units should strive to ascertain and report as much of the data
as possible.
CM2307
1-2
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