The first nuclear reactor in India is called the Apsara research reactor. It was a small swimming pool reactor that became operational on August 4, 1956. Located at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Trombay, Mumbai, the Apsara reactor began India’s nuclear energy program.
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The First Nuclear Reactor in India
The 1st nuclear reactor in India is called the Apsara research reactor. It was a small swimming pool reactor that became operational on August 4, 1956. Located at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Trombay, Mumbai, the Apsara reactor began India’s nuclear energy program.
The Apsara, India’s first nuclear reactor was designed by the Indian nuclear physicist Dr Homi J. Bhabha, who is considered the father of India’s nuclear program. It was a 1 MW (megawatt) thermal atomic research reactor fueled by enriched uranium. The primary purpose of Apsara was to conduct experiments and research in various fields, such as physics, chemistry, biology, and material science.
The success of the Apsara reactor led to the construction of several other nuclear reactors in India, including the CIRUS reactor (Commissioner of Atomic Energy Research Reactor) and the Dhruva reactor. These reactors played a significant role in advancing India’s nuclear research and contributing to the country’s development of nuclear power for electricity generation.
The APSARA, India’s first Nuclear Reactor
The Apsara reactor was a significant milestone for India’s nuclear program. Here are some additional details about the Apsara reactor:
- Design and Operation: The Apsara reactor was a swimming pool-type research reactor. It utilized natural uranium as fuel and heavy water as moderator and coolant. It had a thermal power output of 1 MW.
- Purpose: The primary purpose of the Apsara reactor was to support scientific research and conduct experiments in various fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and material science. It played a crucial role in laying the foundation for nuclear research and development in India.
- Contribution to Nuclear Program: The Apsara reactor was a stepping stone for subsequent nuclear projects in India. The knowledge gained from operating Apsara played a crucial role in developing other reactors, such as the CIRUS and Dhruva reactors.
- Decommissioning and Restart: After several years of operation, the Apsara reactor was decommissioned in 2009 due to aging equipment and to make way for newer research reactors. However, in 2018, India announced the successful recommissioning of Apsara. It underwent refurbishment and modernization to meet contemporary safety standards and was restarted as a low-power reactor.
- Symbolic Importance: The Apsara reactor holds symbolic significance as it represents India’s entry into nuclear research and technology. It began India’s journey towards harnessing atomic energy for peaceful purposes and establishing a robust nuclear power program.
The Apsara reactor paved the way for subsequent developments in India’s nuclear sector, including expanding research capabilities and establishing nuclear power plants for electricity generation. It is an essential milestone in India’s nuclear history and the foundation of its nuclear program.
FAQ: First Nuclear reactor in India
What is the first nuclear reactor in India?
A: The first nuclear reactor in India is the Apsara research reactor. It became operational on August 4, 1956, and was located at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Trombay, Mumbai. The Apsara reactor was a 1 MW thermal swimming pool-type research reactor designed by Dr. Homi J. Bhabha. It played a significant role in laying the foundation for India’s nuclear research and development program.
where was the first nuclear reactor established in India?
The first nuclear reactor in India, the Apsara research reactor, was established at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Trombay, Mumbai.
which is the first nuclear reactor in India?
The first nuclear reactor in India is the Apsara research reactor.
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