The bomber was to have been powered by an on-board nuclear reactor, and could have flown without landing for months on end. The idea was scrapped, but not until after the hangar had been built. Since 1949, more nuclear reactors more than 50 have been built on this plain than anywhere else in the world. Commercial power reactor prototypes, including reactors that breed more fuel than they consume, were developed here. Internationally renowned for its materials testing reactors and reactor programs, this laboratory has become a major research center for developing peaceful use of atomic energy.
Admission is free.
You can see the turbine, control room, rod farm, fuel rods, the reactor itself, and the hot cell with 34 layers of oil separated glass that is used for inspection and repair of radioactive materials. Additionally, three films on aspects of nuclear energy can be viewed. At an initial construction cost of over eight million dollars, the nuclear aircraft hangar has an area of 82,865 square feet, nearly two acres, or the size of three football fields. Its Quonset hut shape can be seen from over 20 miles away. In accordance with its size, the mass of the airplane would also be substantial.