Four US nuclear reactors reach criticality in industry milestone

Four nuclear reactors have achieved criticality, a key operational milestone that demonstrates functioning reactor cores and advances the Trump administration's stated goal to accelerate microreactor deployment in the United States.

First covered Jul 9, 2026 · 1:00 AM PT · 1 article

Four US nuclear reactors reach criticality in industry milestone — Image via technologyreview.com

Coverage

8h MIT Technology Review · Climate Four nuclear reactors hit a big milestone in the US — I was really looking forward to July 4, and not just because I love a poolside barbecue. This year the American holiday also marked a big symbolic deadline for…

Primary sources

energy.gov Department of Energy Announces Initial Selections for New Reactor Pilot Program

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More coverage from around the web

energy.gov U.S. Department of Energy Meets President Trump’s Goal, Delivers Third Advanced Reactor Criticality | Department of Energy

interestingengineering.com US microreactor hits criticality to meet Trump's July 4 nuclear goal

forbes.com Trump Meets Own July 4 Deadline To Go ‘Critical’ With Three New Mini Nuclear Reactors

yournews.com Third U.S. Microreactor Hits Criticality as Trump Nuclear Deadline Is Met – [your]NEWS

theepochtimes.com Criticality Reached for 3rd US Advanced Reactor | The Epoch Times

Appeared in: 2026-07-09 (#5)

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