Chernobyl aftermath decline new reactor construction

Chernobyl slowed new reactor construction

Beyond the Soviet Union, the disaster’s political aftermath brought rising safety standards, higher construction costs, and stronger public opposition. Together, these changes caused a sharp decline in the rate at which new nuclear reactors were built after 1986.

A spinning mercury telescope mirror must always face upward

Spinning liquid mercury naturally forms the curved shape needed for a telescope mirror. Such mirrors can be far cheaper than large solid ones. But liquid cannot be tilted without spilling or changing shape, so the telescope must always look straight up.

Russia’s only other northern port froze

9 months a year

Peter the Great sought a Baltic seaport because Arkhangelsk, Russia’s only other northern port, was icebound for nine months a year, while Sweden blocked access to the Baltic. The Great Northern War secured Russia’s access to the sea.

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Chernobyl aftermath decline new reactor construction

Chernobyl slowed new reactor construction

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