World Nuclear Energy Day kicks off on historic date

Choosing the date: December 2 was chosen as the date of the event in recognition of the first self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction and the start-up of the first electric power reactor in the United States.

On December 2, 1942, Chicago Pile-1 went critical, creating the world's first controlled, self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction. Exactly 15 years later, on December 2, 1957, the Shippingport reactor in Pennsylvania achieved first criticality.

How the day was founded: World Nuclear Energy Day coordinator Jim Scherrer said that the idea spawned from the 50th anniversary of Earth Day in April, when a group of grassroots members of the nuclear energy industry felt that nuclear energy deserved its own day. The idea took shape from there. A six-person advisory board was created to select the day, create a theme, and get the word out.

The theme: World Nuclear Energy Day 2020 is designed to celebrate the inspirational commitment of people involved in the nuclear energy sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, often thanklessly and tirelessly working to keep the lights on and the essential nuclear facilities operating smoothly.

What to look for: The organizers are encouraging in-person events (abiding by the CDC guidelines to remain safe during the COVID-19 pandemic) to spark discussions around the future of nuclear energy, to honor the frontline nuclear workforce, and to connect each employee to this global celebration.