"Get to Know Nuclear" - National Nuclear Science Week 2014, Day One

October 20, 2014, 11:00AMANS Nuclear CafeWill Davis

NSWlogoMonday, October 20, marks the first official day of National Nuclear Science Week-a week long, annual coordinated educational event that promotes nuclear science and technology.

Five years ago the Smithsonian Affiliated National Museum of Nuclear Science and History founded this nationally recognized, week-long celebration. Nuclear Science Week is a unique outreach opportunity that grants teachers, students, and the general public direct access to nuclear technologies and energy experts. A basic introduction to the concept, as well as details of its execution, can be found here.

Each day of the NNSW focuses on a specific theme, and as an introduction the first day is designated as "Get to Know Nuclear." You might be surprised how many facets of our lives are touched, and enhanced, by nuclear technologies-and you might be surprised how many people know little or nothing about these nuclear technologies. Fortunately, there are a number of great, easy-to-read official sources you can consult if you're an educator tasked with presenting such material or even if you're just personally curious.

The American Nuclear Society's Center for Nuclear Science and Technology Information has set up a special section on National Nuclear Science Week, which can be found here. There is a specially dedicated section for the first day, "Get to Know Nuclear." ANS also has a variety of educational materials available at this link.

National Nuclear Science Week has its own dedicated stand-alone website, found here, which is presented by the National Museum of Nuclear Science. A schedule of various events throughout the week can be found here.

(Will Davis for ANS Nuclear Cafe.)


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