What is the name of India's first Nuclear Reactor?
VerifiedAnswer: Apsara
Explanation:
Apsara holds the distinction of being India's first nuclear reactor, marking a significant milestone in the country's journey toward scientific independence and technological advancement. Named after the celestial dancers in Hindu mythology, this reactor symbolized India's graceful entry into the nuclear age.
The reactor was established at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Trombay, Mumbai, and achieved its first criticality on August 4, 1956. This historic moment came just nine years after India gained independence, demonstrating the nation's commitment to harnessing atomic energy for peaceful purposes under the visionary leadership of Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha.
Apsara was a swimming pool type research reactor, designed primarily for research and training purposes rather than power generation. The reactor used enriched uranium as fuel and light water as both moderator and coolant. With a thermal power output of just 1 MW, it served as an invaluable tool for conducting neutron physics experiments, producing radioisotopes for medical and industrial applications, and training nuclear scientists and engineers.
The construction of Apsara was made possible through collaboration with the United Kingdom under the "Atoms for Peace" program. British experts provided technical assistance, while the reactor's design was based on the BEPO (British Experimental Pile O) reactor. However, Indian scientists and engineers played crucial roles in the construction, operation, and subsequent modifications of the reactor.
For over four decades, Apsara served India's nuclear research community faithfully. It contributed significantly to developing indigenous expertise in nuclear technology and helped establish India as a responsible nuclear power. The reactor was instrumental in training hundreds of nuclear professionals who later contributed to India's expanding nuclear program.
After serving the nation for 53 years, Apsara was finally shut down in 2009 and has since been replaced by more advanced research reactors like Dhruva and Apsara-U. However, its legacy continues to inspire India's nuclear journey, reminding us of the pioneering spirit that launched the country's peaceful nuclear program.
