Nuclear Science Week to be celebrated at museum

Published Oct. 8, 2014
By Ryan Stark
Nucleus writer

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, located just past Kirtland's Eubank gate, will be a center of activity for a national commemoration of nuclear science later this month.

Nuclear Science Week, being held for the fifth year at sites across the country, had its start at the local Smithsonian-affiliated museum in 2009.

"We consulted with (the Smithsonian's) nuclear industry partners, discussing the need for generating communication and public awareness centered on the achievements of nuclear science," said Jennifer Hayden, the museum's director of marketing and public relations. "Through these discussions, the idea of hosting a week that celebrated the field of nuclear science materialized."

In addition to the event in Albuquerque, the main celebration will take place in Seattle with smaller commemorations in Chicago, Aiken, S.C. and Augusta, Ga.

"Nuclear science plays a vital role in the lives of Americans," Hayden said. "We hope Nuclear Science Week helps people get to know nuclear (science) and participate in advancing education, stimulating participation and generating communication that provides insight into the achievements of the nuclear sciences."

She added that NMNSH will host over 1,200 local middle and high school students, Girl Scouts and other youth as part of the week's activities.

For more about Nuclear Science Week, go to www.nuclearscienceweek.org. go to www.nuclearmuseum.org for more information about the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History.