California, renowned for iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood, and Disneyland, also conceals some unsettling aspects from its history. Among these is a covert nuclear facility, the Santa Susana Field Lab (SSFL), which formerly conducted tests on nuclear bombs and reactors and now remains deserted and contaminated.
The Santa Susana Field Lab (SSFL)
Situated in the hills above the San Fernando and Simi valleys, approximately 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles, the Santa Susana Field Lab (SSFL) was established in 1947 by the U.S. government and private companies. Used for experimenting with nuclear reactors and rocket systems, the 2,800-acre site comprised four areas, each designated for specific purposes and security levels. Notably, Area Four was the most secretive and hazardous, housing 10 nuclear reactors and numerous “hot labs” for processing and storing radioactive materials.
Nuclear Incidents and Concealment
Throughout its existence, the SSFL witnessed various nuclear accidents and incidents that released radiation into the air, soil, and water. The most severe mishap occurred on July 13, 1959, when a reactor in Area Four experienced a partial meltdown, causing core damage and the release of radioactive gases. This incident was kept under wraps for decades, with workers instructed to release gases into the atmosphere discreetly, often during nighttime, to evade detection. The true extent of radiation exposure and contamination remains uncertain due to incomplete, inaccurate, or destroyed records.
Closure and Cleanup
The SSFL concluded its nuclear operations in 1988 and rocket testing in 2006. Since then, the site has largely been abandoned and neglected, leaving behind a legacy of environmental contamination and health hazards. Owned by the U.S. Department of Energy, NASA, and Boeing, the responsibility for cleanup and remediation rests with these entities. However, disagreements regarding standards, methods, and cleanup deadlines have made the process slow and controversial.
The Tunnels’ Ghost Town
Presently, the SSFL resembles a ghost town of tunnels, buildings, and equipment that once housed this clandestine nuclear facility. The site remains contaminated with radioactive and toxic materials, posing ongoing threats to the environment and human health.
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