Ep 3. Episode 3

In the third episode of the Netflix series Dark Tourist, the host David Farrier travels to Kazakhstan to explore the legacy of the Soviet Union's nuclear testing program. He meets with locals who have been affected by the radiation and visits the Semipalatinsk Test Site, the former nuclear testing site where over 400 nuclear explosions were conducted.

Farrier begins his journey by meeting with Nurlan, a former soldier who was stationed near the test site during the Soviet era. Nurlan shares his personal experience of witnessing the tests and explains how many of his fellow soldiers suffered from radiation sickness and other health issues as a result.

Farrier then travels to Kurchatov, a nearby town that was built to house the scientists and workers involved in the nuclear program. He visits the Museum of Atomic Tests, where he learns more about the history of the testing program and sees artifacts such as a radiation suit and a Soviet era nuclear warhead.

Next, Farrier heads to a village near the test site where he meets with a family who have experienced the devastating effects of the radiation firsthand. The family members share stories of relatives who have died from cancer and other illnesses related to radiation exposure. Farrier is clearly moved by their stories and expresses his sympathies.

Finally, Farrier visits the Semipalatinsk Test Site, which has been closed to the public since the early 1990s. He tours the site and sees the craters left by the nuclear explosions, as well as the abandoned control center and other buildings. He also meets with a group of activists who are working to raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear testing and to help those who have been affected by radiation exposure.

Throughout the episode, Farrier maintains his trademark mix of humor and empathy as he explores this dark chapter in Kazakhstan's history. His interactions with the local people are respectful and thoughtful, and he takes the time to listen to their stories and understand their perspectives. The episode is a powerful reminder of the lasting damage that nuclear testing can cause, and of the importance of remembering and learning from the past.