Aldebaran France’s first Pacific nuclear test フランス初の太平洋核実験

France’s first Pacific nuclear test, using the M-50 CTC (Charge Tactique Commune – common tactical warhead) device which went on to be deployed as the AN-51 and AN-52 tactical warheads. The barge containing the nuclear device was moored at the Dindon testing sector on the western end of the atoll. This method of testing would be used for a further three tests (Rigel, Sirius, and Arcturus). Un-predicted weather conditions and the fact that it was a suface shot, caused significant radioactive contamination of the Mururoa Atoll. The local populations were not notified about the radiological situation.