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Capacity: 20 (Please note that the tour is limited to individuals who took part in the conference’s technical sessions or expo hall; unfortunately, guests are not permitted to attend)

Explore the Frontlines of Science at Oak Ridge National Laboratory 

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)—a cornerstone of American scientific innovation.

Your visit begins with check-in and a stop at the on-site cafeteria for lunch, followed by a chance to unwind and explore the grounds.



Graphite Reactor Museum

The Graphite Reactor began operation in 1943 to show that plutonium could be extracted from irradiated uranium slugs. It was the first reactor used to study the nature of matter, and after WWII, it was the foremost source of radioisotopes for medicine, agriculture, industry and other purposes. The Graphite Reactor operated from 1943 to 1963.


High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR)

A one-of-the-kind 85 MW research reactor that uses water for both moderation and cooling. Completed in 1965, HFIR continues the legacy of the Graphite reactor in the generation of research isotopes at ORNL. HFIR is the source of the strongest reactor-based neutron beam in the United States, and the trap locations provide opportunities to test new materials and fuels under a wide range of neutron fluxes (e.g., the flux in some traps are 10x a typical PWR). 


Irradiated Fuel Examination Laboratory

This hot-cell facility is dedicated to irradiated fuel post-irradiation examination and performs work on a variety of fuel types including full-length commercial light water reactor rods, TRISO, and novel fuel concepts irradiated at HFIR. Examinations range from the engineering scale to the sub-micron scale. The Severe Accident Test Station and Core Conduction Cooldown Test Facility evaluate fuel under accident conditions in this facility.

Important Requirements:

  • U.S. Citizens – Must bring a valid REAL ID driver’s license or passport (Visit the following site for more information > Real ID)

    • Non-US Citizens/Foreign Nationals - Be prepared to provide Passport and Citizenship Information

  • Registration deadline: August 13. No exceptions due to federal security requirements.


  • *All attendees are subject to a background check. If any item in their record falls under the facility’s internal “sensitive list,” they will not be permitted onsite. No further details about the list can be disclosed. *


This is a rare opportunity to walk through the history and future of nuclear science—don’t miss it!

*Please note tour refunds are only available prior to the early-bird deadline. After this date, all tour bookings are considered final and non-refundable. We appreciate your understanding.