The directions read: Take the next left at the shot-out sign that used to read "Susanville" (the not as badly shot out cross sign reads "Gerlach"). The car hurtled across desert paths, over sagebrush and railroad tracks. GPS coordinates announced the destination. Welcome to Simnuke.

At 5:29 a.m. on July 16, 2005, approximately 100 people congregated in the desert to observe a nuclear simulation. The event marked the precise anniversary of Trinity, the first atomic bomb detonation. It was a mix of art, protest and educational event.

Just before the sun came over the mountain peaks Saturday morning, groups of tired people started straggling toward the site from scattered camp hovels. Groups of cars, tents, shade lean-to's and a few RVs dotted the edge of the desert playa. Hellos were exchanged but the mood was restrained. A group of women dressed as 1950s wives and outfitted with nostalgic mid-century signs sang a song celebrating the atomic age. At first light, a cellist played a dirge.

Molly G.L., contributing. Photo by William Francis.