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Questions about Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When did the Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant connect to an electrical grid?

The Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant connected to an electrical grid on the 27th of June 1954. This event marked the first time a nuclear reactor supplied electricity to a public power network globally.

Where is the Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant located in Russia?

The Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant sits within the Science City of Kaluga Oblast about 30 kilometers southwest of Moscow. It was built at the Institute of Physics and Power Engineering during construction that began on the 31st of December 1950.

What happened to the Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant after it stopped producing electricity?

After electricity production ceased in 2002, the Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant transitioned to research and isotope production functions. The facility remained operational for heat utilization until its final shutdown on the 29th of April 2002.

Who designed the technology used at the Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant?

Engineers developed the AM-1 reactor design with graphite moderation and water cooling systems under the leadership of Lev Kotchetkov. He described this technology as a prototype that later influenced larger designs like RBMK reactors.

How long did the Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant operate before shutting down?

The Obninsk Nuclear Power Plant operated from first criticality on the 2nd of May 1954 until its closure on the 29th of April 2002. This timeline covered forty-eight years of service without any significant incidents or radiation exposure fatalities among personnel.