Project Plowshare

Project Plowshare was a U.S. government initiative during the Cold War aimed at exploring the peaceful use of nuclear explosions for large-scale civil engineering projects. The idea was to harness nuclear technology to excavate channels, create reservoirs, and build underground spaces more efficiently and cost-effectively than traditional methods. While it demonstrated some potential, concerns over safety, radioactive contamination, and environmental impact limited its use. Ultimately, the program was discontinued due to these risks and changing priorities, but it provided valuable insights into the effects of nuclear detonations on the environment and infrastructure.