Preface 71 Trinity 92 Versatile Beginnings 153 In Europe 334 The Discovery of Nuclear Fission 555 The Manhattan Project 736 Instructions for an Atomic Bomb 977 Radiation Risks 1178 The Essential Ten 1399 Atomic Secrets 16310 Inspirational Monument 18511 Difficult Years 20312 On the Silver Screen 21713 Legacy of the Bomb 245Notes and References 260Acknowledgments 269J. Robert Oppenheimer, often referred to as ‘the father of the atomic bomb,’ left us with a grim legacy. The nuclear advancements he helped create became a pivotal factor in shaping the 20th century, dominating global power dynamics and modern warfare.A brilliant yet contentious physicist, Oppenheimer was eventually viewed as a threat to the U.S. government due to his perceived communist sympathies, leading to his forced resignation as the nation’s nuclear advisor. His life was marked by extraordinary achievements but also by deep personal and professional humiliation.Oppenheimer’s impact extends beyond science and politics; his complex personality continues to resonate in literature, music, and film. He has become a cultural icon, who, despite his influence, could not prevent the inescapable reality of nuclear deterrence that shaped our modern world.'Oppenheimer in Focus' explores the controversial life of Oppenheimer, delving into the science of the bomb, the inherent risks, and the man’s profound interests in poetry, art, and philosophy. Extensive coverage is given to Christopher Nolan’s biopic Oppenheimer, which put this extraordinary scientist in a global spotlight.Praise for the Dutch edition of'Oppenheimer in Focus':'A collection of topics, expertly explored and clearly described; it therefore gives a complete picture and is a beautiful addition to the extensive Oppenheimer literature.- DUTCH JOURNAL OF PHYSICS'The authors distinguish themselves from otherOppenheimer biographers with their perspective on natural science; it certainly adds to theearlier works on Oppenheimer.- NEW SCIENTIST