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Railgun To Air on National Geographic Documentary

For Immediate Release: Aug 24, 2011
By the Office of Naval Research

ARLINGTON, Va.—The Office of Naval Research’s (ONR) world-record-setting Electromagnetic Railgun (EMRG) will be featured in a nationally televised documentary, “Earth Overhaul,” on the National Geographic Channel, premiering Aug. 25.

Sean Riley, host of “World’s Toughest Fixes,” will join experts in examining a range of innovative technologies. In one segment dedicated to the railgun, Riley takes a theoretical look at EMRG technology and the role it could play in minimizing or reversing the effects of global warming.

EMRG technology uses pulses of electrical power instead of gun powder or rocket motors to launch and accelerate a projectile to speeds greater than Mach 7, when fully developed, and deliver advanced weapon capability for future naval forces.

The one-hour program will air Aug. 25-29. Showtimes are:

  • 10 p.m., Aug. 25
  • 1 a.m., Aug. 26
  • 8 p.m. and 11 p.m., Aug. 27
  • 11 a.m., Aug. 29
  • 8 p.m., Sept. 1

For more information:

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy’s Office of Naval Research provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps’ technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 55 countries, 634 institutions of higher learning and nonprofit institutions, and more than 960 industry partners. ONR, through its commands, including headquarters, ONR Global and the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., employs more than 3,800 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel.