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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
Latest Magazine Issues
Aug 2026
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2026
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
September 2026
Nuclear Technology
Fusion Science and Technology
August 2026
Latest News
Oklo’s Isotope Test Reactor achieves criticality
Oklo’s Groves Isotope Test Reactor became the fifth Department of Energy–authorized reactor to achieve criticality under the agency’s authorization process, it was announced earlier today.
Criticality was reached at 9:19 p.m. (EDT) on Wednesday at the company’s Groves facility in Lockhart, Texas, according to the DOE.
Technical Session|Panel|Speaker Presentation
Saturday, April 18, 2026|2:30–3:30PM CDT|MSC 2405
Session Chair:
Andrew Stewart
Alternate Chair:
Vincent Su
Session Organizer:
Axel Batres (TAMU)
This presentation examines the emerging commercial nuclear maritime landscape, where decarbonization mandates, emissions pressure, and a new generation of advanced SMR designs are converging to make shipboard nuclear propulsion an increasingly serious contender for ultra-large container ships, bulk carriers, and LNG tankers. From reactor design and classification society readiness frameworks to the complex regulatory pathways unique to maritime nuclear licensing, the session maps where the technology, the market, and the rules of the road currently stand. The audience should leave with a clear-eyed understanding of who the key players are, what barriers remain, and why this moment may represent a genuine commercial turning point for nuclear at sea.