MIT Plan to Detect Hidden Nuclear Weapons in Space With a Neutron-Sensor Satellite
MIT physicist Areg Danagoulian proposes a proof-of-concept “inspector” satellite that would orbit beneath a suspect spacecraft and use a specialized neutron detector to pick up signals from uranium in a thermonuclear warhead as it traverses the inner Van Allen belt, while filtering out protons and Earth-originating background neutrons through directional detection. The concept aims to verify Outer Space Treaty commitments by detecting potential space-based nukes, but it remains theoretical and would require prototypes and further development to address practical challenges.
