Desert of Silence

History & Resources

Documenting the timeline, facts, and geography of the tests.

Timeline of Events

1960

Gerboise Bleue

First test at Reggane (13 Feb 1960), yield ~70 kt — marked France’s nuclear entry.

Source
1961

Gerboise Blanche & follow-ups

Continued atmospheric tests spread fallout to inhabited areas.

Source
1962

Béryl Incident

Containment failure at In Ekker released gas and radiation exposure.

Source
1966

Final Tests

Testing continued after independence under negotiated arrangements.

Source
Today

Legacy

Ongoing environmental and health impacts in the region.

Locations

  • RegganeAtmospheric Tests
  • In EkkerUnderground Tests

Key Facts

Total Tests17 (1960–1966).
First Test Yield70kt

The energy released by Gerboise Bleue was approximately four times that of the Little Boy bomb dropped on Hiroshima.

Persistent concerns: documented contamination, incomplete cleanup, and long-term health questions.

Research status: evidence is uneven; testimony fills critical gaps.

Educational Resources

Important Links