Is it CONCEIVABLE that a device (an energy converter) could be
contructed that could convert the energy from a small 1 kt nuclear
device into a form of energy that could be used to transmit a signal
(radio radiation)? I am looking for information relating to how such a
device would work, or why it wouldnt? Maybe an article in Scientific
American or some other science journal?

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Request for Question Clarification by koz-ga on 28 Jan 2003 23:27 PST

When you say a signal and "radio radiation", do you mean a modulated
signal (such as an FM radio transmission), or something akin to an
electromagnetic pulse (which overloads and wipes out all electronic
devices in it's range)?

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Clarification of Question by kongulu-ga on 29 Jan 2003 01:14 PST

Dear koz, Thank you for responding. I am looking for a hypothetical
way to convert the energy from a 1 kt neclear device into a high-power
modulated ULF or ELF or VLF pulse that would be transmitted through a
large antenna farm. It would be ideal if there were some way to store
excess energy for a second or third pulse. This device obviously does
not exist, but my question is: Is it conceivable, or if not how might
one hypotheticaly take a small nuke explosion and convert it into a
modulated signal? Think of a remote area with no access to other than
a trickle of electricity.

I recall reading something along these lines.  The plan was to use a
nuclear explosion in a satellite to power an X-ray laser to destroy
ICBMs - part of the defunct "Star Wars" strategy.  I think the
mechanism used bundles of parallel metal rods.  This may give you some
pointers.  Of course, if you wanted to use this as a signaling device,
either you'd have to find some way of modulating the pulse, or use
multiple timed devices, or possibly encode your message into the
spatial orientation and position of the rods.  Needless to say - it
would be a one-off device!

Could you design a device for me? I am looking for a word description
of how the device would work. The description should be believable and
consistent with known or legitimately theorized scientific principles.
You can design a device that might be buildable in let's say in 50
years time, so you've got a nice bleeding edge to work with.

The device should be earth based and be powered by a 1 KT nuclear
explosion. The device will transmit a powerful ULF burst into the
atmosphere where under special conditions (which you describe)
modulated ULF signal will (somehow which you describe, like bounce of
the ionosphere) be projected around the entire globe, such that it can
be picked up at almost any point (exceptions should be noted) on the
globe.

If you choose to answer this question satisfactorily I can pay for it
with a $10 tip, added to the current question. Thank you.