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Admission to the expedition
Radiation uncovered
The origins of the nuclear era...
Test field
The forgotten voices
When silence was no longer an option
The polygon today and tomorrow
Wall of remembrance
About the course
Reminders for ambassadors
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Before we begin

Admission to the Expedition

How to behave if you happen to end up at the Semipalatinsk test site
Most areas of the Semipalatinsk test site are safe. But, even decadesafter the end of the test series there are still hazardous areas with radiation level exceeding permissible limits. This calls for a careful and prudent research approach:
  • Study the map of the Semipalatinsk test site and exclude the test grounds from your itinerary. Check with the The National Nuclear Center for locations of contaminated and/or restricted areas where entry is prohibited without permission.
  • Do not enter or drive into areas marked with prohibiting signs.
  • Do not enter craters or craters of nuclear explosions.
  • Do not collect or take plants, stones, or metal objects with you.
  • Do not touch metal objects or remains of any structures.
  • In windy weather, avoid dusty areas and be sure to wear a mask or respirator.
  • Do not consume berries, mushrooms, herbs or water found on the test site.
  • Be sure to wear long sleeved clothing and pants and comfortable shoes to minimize contact with soil and dust.
  • A researcher's best friend is a portable dosimeter for checking radiation levels.
  • After returning home, take off and wash your clothes, wash your hands and face.
How to protect yourself from radiation?
Radiation cannot be seen, touched, or felt. So, the main protection is knowing the rules. As already the ancient Romans said 'knowledge is power'. Everyone working with radiation follows these rules: scientists, military personnel, doctors, geologists, pilots, and astronauts.
The main principles of radiation safety are:
KNOWLEDGE
Your first line of defense: Learn the essentials of radiation.
TIME
Spend as little time as possible in areas of potential danger.
PROTECTION (shielding)
Use barriers: protective suits, shoes, respirators, walls, lead, concrete - anything that can absorb or reduce radiation.
DISTANCE
Stay as far away from the source as possible.
Remember
Radiation is dangerous only at high doses, exceeding permitted levels. By following simple rules, one can safely visit even historically contaminated areas like the Semipalatinsk test site - to study, remember, and most importantly never repeat the mistakes of the past.
Getting Started
  • The purpose of the expedition
    explore history, understand the consequences, preserve the memory
  • Form of participation
    active route completion, task completion, respect for sensitive topics

Now you are ready for your first stop!

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Radiation uncovered