Gypsum panels, panel cores, and methods for the manufacture thereof are provided herein. A gypsum panel core includes gypsum and fiberglass, the fiberglass being present in the core in an amount of from about 1 lb/msf to about 6 lb/msf. The core has a thickness of about 1/2 inch, a weight of from about 1400 lb/msf to about 1750 lb/msf, and an ASTM E-119 wood stud fire test rating of at least 30 minutes.