Japan To Create a Nuclear Meltdown

Taco Cowboy writes "Japanese researchers are planning an experiment to better understand what transpires during a nuclear meltdown by attempting to create a controlled nuclear meltdown. Using a scaled down version of a nuclear reactor — essentially a meter long stainless steel container — the experiment will involve the insertion of a foot long (30 cm) nuclear fuel rod, starting the fission process, and then draining the coolant. The experiment is scheduled to take place later this year."

WTF?

[TWX]

I mean, didn't they see all those Godzilla movies?

Re:We all know what's going to happen...

[Zoolander]

Cute. Cuddly. Deadly.

I thought that experiment was already underway

[Marrow]

Just give it a little time folks. You will have your answer just like the rest of the world, only sooner.

Re:sure

[jalopezp]

It's possible that because of some failure, their test reactor does not melt down.

Re:Environmental impact?

[Sockatume]

Being a major industrialised nation with a nuclear power program, Japan has no nuclear research facilities so they're going to do it in downtown Tokyo.

your favorite monster sucks

[Thud457]

holy crap, next you're gonna be blathering about non-existent sequels to "The Matrix", "Highlander" or Star Wars prequels.

Re:Great

[Nemyst]

The lizard pen of that facility is apparently really cool. A bit big for the lizards, though, and I'm not sure why it's so close to the reactor...

Re:Good Idea

[BigT]

It won't tell you much about what happens when the fuel all melts and starts pooling at the bottom of the reactor of course

They already did that experiment, but it was poorly instrumented.

Re:Great

[Your.Master]

That's very smug and glib, but your attitude is like saying that trains and cars are a waste of time because we'll eventually invent airplanes, and we can stick with horses until then.