Harold M. Agnew Signed Trinity Nuclear Test Mushroom Cloud Photograph.

Agnew, Harold M. [Berlyn Brixner]

About this Item

Rare original vintage Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory photograph of the first mushroom cloud from the Trinity nuclear test, the first detonation of a nuclear weapon. Semi-glossy, black and white photographic print of the first mushroom cloud taken at 100 meters and 0.034 seconds after detonation as the mushroom cloud began to form. Boldly signed by American physicist Harold M. Agnew in the upper margin at the center right in black felt tip. The photograph was taken by Berlyn Brixner. Brixner (1911-2009) was the head photographer for the 'Trinity' test, the first-ever detonation of a nuclear weapon, on July 16, 1945. Positioned 10,000 yards away from the explosion, he utilized fifty 16mm high-speed cameras at varying film speeds and locations to capture the blast in full motion. His efforts produced over 100,000 images, documenting in detail the raw power of nuclear weaponry and visually marking the dawn of the Atomic Age. In fine condition with light creasing at the corners. Stamped on the verso is, "LASL Graphic Arts Group." The piece measures 11 inches by 8.5 inches. Harold M. Agnew (1921â "2013) was an American physicist whose career spanned pivotal moments in the history of nuclear science, from the Manhattan Project to the Cold War. As a young scientist at Los Alamos, Agnew worked under Luis Alvarez on the instrumentation team responsible for measuring the yield and effects of early atomic tests, including the Trinity explosion in 1945. He later flew aboard the observation plane during the Hiroshima mission, helping collect vital scientific data on the bombâ s detonation. After the war, Agnew played a central role in the development of nuclear weapons and policy, ultimately serving as director of Los Alamos National Laboratory from 1970 to 1979.

Seller Inventory # 148773

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Harold M. Agnew Signed Trinity Nuclear Test Mushroom Cloud Photograph.
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Signed: Signed by Author(s)
• Seller catalogs:
  • First Edition