The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque, New Mexico, will celebrate the week with different hands-on educational activities each day. Nearly 1,000 local students will visit the Museum throughout the week, where they will measure their exposure to radiation, simulate a nuclear chain reaction, see how alpha, beta and gamma particles penetrate different substances, demonstrate how electricity is generated in a table top power plant, learn the value of nuclear medicine, and explore the facts (and fiction) of nuclear energy.
The week is a national, broadly observed recognition of how nuclear science plays a vital role in the lives of Americans - and the world. Activities during the week are intended to build awareness of the contributions of the nuclear science industry and those who work in it every day.
“With the nation’s spotlight on energy generation and a greener environment, it makes sense to recognize the contributions of nuclear power. Other technologies, such as nuclear medicine with its diagnostic and treatment opportunities, are also hugely important to all Americans,” states the Director of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, Jim Walther. “The future career opportunities in science and energy are significant as well. This week provides all of us with more information on these vital topics.”
The Web site is http://www.NuclearScienceWeek.org and features a “celebration guide” that includes free tips and tools such as a proclamation template for those wishing to create their own celebration. There are also suggestions for activities each day of the week. Followers can also access news about the week through Twitter, Facebook and a nuclear science week blogspot.
National Nuclear Science Week is a partnership between the host organization, the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and nuclear industry partners, including the SRS Community Reuse Organization, Nuclear Energy Institute, Entergy, the US Department of Energy, the American Nuclear Society, and the Society of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging.
For more information on the Museum, visit www.nuclearmuseum.org or call 505-245-2317.