NRX, Canada’s first reactor

June 7, 2017

NRX reactor building and cooling tanks, 1945. National Research Council of Canada

1947

During the Second World War, Canada, in collaboration with the United States and Britain, was responsible for the production of the atomic bomb. During this time, a nuclear laboratory was established at Chalk River, Ontario, and, in July 1947, Canada’s first experimental reactor — the NRX, or National Research Experimental — was built for a wide range of nuclear-energy research purposes, as well as potential civilian and military applications.

Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.