THE TEST examines the history of atomic testing in Nevada, atomic tourism, and the consequences of being in Nevada's "atomic backyard." Following World War II, as the United States plunged into the Cold War, scientists raced to keep the nation secure in the nuclear age. They lacked a full understanding of atomic weaponry's destructive scope and knew the bomb had to be tested further. Ultimately, atomic testing sites, including one in Nevada, were established. The one-hour documentary delves into the testing in Nevada and the rise of "atomic culture." Highlights include the elaborately constructed "doom towns," "atomic tourism," which describes how nuclear testing became a main event in Las Vegas as residents and visitors alike lined up to watch "the show," as well as a detailing of the history leading up to the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, still in effect today. Additionally, THE TEST examines the role that the former test site serves today in preparing first responders for the fight against terrorism and other dangers.
