India's First Nuclear Reactor?
VerifiedAnswer: Apsara
Explanation:
Apsara was India's first nuclear research reactor, marking a significant milestone in the country's journey toward nuclear energy development. This historic reactor was inaugurated on August 4, 1956, at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Trombay, Mumbai, by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
The reactor was named after the celestial nymphs called "Apsaras" in Hindu mythology, reflecting India's tradition of connecting scientific achievements with cultural heritage. Apsara was a swimming pool-type research reactor that used enriched uranium as fuel and light water as both moderator and coolant. The reactor had an initial power capacity of 1 megawatt thermal (MWt).
This groundbreaking project was developed under the guidance of Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha, who is often called the father of India's nuclear program. The reactor was designed and built with assistance from the United Kingdom as part of the Atoms for Peace program initiated by the United States. British engineers and scientists collaborated with Indian researchers to make this ambitious project a reality.
The primary purpose of Apsara was research and training rather than power generation. Scientists used it to conduct various experiments in nuclear physics, produce radioisotopes for medical and industrial applications, and train nuclear engineers and researchers. The reactor played a crucial role in developing India's nuclear expertise and laid the foundation for the country's future nuclear power program.
Key features and achievements of Apsara include:
• First nuclear reactor in Asia outside of the Soviet Union • Operated successfully for over 53 years until 2009 • Trained hundreds of nuclear scientists and engineers • Produced radioisotopes for medical treatments and industrial applications • Served as a stepping stone for India's indigenous nuclear technology development
After decades of faithful service, Apsara was decommissioned in 2009. However, its legacy continues through Apsara-U, a modern upgraded version that became operational in 2018. The success of Apsara demonstrated India's commitment to peaceful nuclear technology and established the country as a significant player in the global nuclear community.
