Russia launches floating reactor

Russia launched the world’s first floating nuclear reactor yesterday, sending it on an epic journey across the Arctic, despite environmentalists warning of a “Chernobyl on ice.”

Loaded with nuclear fuel, the Akademik Lomonosov left the Arctic port of Murmansk to begin its 5,000 kilometre (3,000-mile) voyage to Pevek in northeastern Siberia.

Nuclear agency Rosatom says the reactor is a simpler alternative to building a conventional plant in isolated places where ground is frozen all year round, and it intends to sell such reactors abroad.

The new reactor is part of the new floating energy and heat plant, which will be a “key element in the development of the Northern Sea Route” and will help Russia “realise large infrastructural projects” in the region, Rosatom said in a statement.

But environmental groups have long warned of the dangers of the project, dubbing it a potential “Chernobyl on ice” and a “nuclear Titanic.”

A deadly explosion this month at a military testing site in Russia’s far north caused a radioactive surge, prompting further concerns.

The reactor’s trip is expected to last between four and six weeks, depending on the weather conditions and the amount of ice on the way.