Tellus Science Museum
Bringing Nuclear Power Content to Tellus Science Museum
UxC is a major sponsor of Tellus Science Museum. Affiliated with the Smithsonian, Tellus is a world-class museum located in Cartersville, Georgia. Over the past several years, UxC has worked with Tellus to incorporate the science and advantages of nuclear power into the museum’s exhibits and educational content, with the goal of establishing a permanent exhibit in the museum.
In March of 2022, Tellus’ Ask the Expert virtual program dealt with nuclear power and small modular reactors. In June, UxC arranged for Dr. Claudio Filippone to discuss his Holos microreactor concept at Tellus as part of its monthly lecture series in Cartersville, Georgia. The event was well received and generated a number of questions. In 2023, discussions began on the design of a permanent exhibit on electricity.
In late 2023 and early 2024, UxC Chairman Jeff Combs funded two design studies for this permanent exhibit, including the important role played by nuclear energy. Nuclear is a key component of energy transition to greater electricity use, especially given the growing demand for continuous, environmentally friendly energy sources stemming from the increased electricity needs associated with advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence.
In 2024, two design companies met with Mr. Combs and Tellus personnel to develop and present their concepts for the exhibit. Budgets were presented, and the plan was to develop a final budget and commissioning of the work later that year, with fund raising and construction to follow.
The dramatic growth of electricity caused Tellus to re-examine the scope of the exhibit, and it was decided that a larger exhibit was needed. The footprint allocated for the exhibit increased by a factor of five, necessitating a new conceptual plan to be developed in 2026. Also, Mr. Combs was appointed to the board of Tellus to provide guidance for this project. A final plan for the exhibit, which has now been commissioned, is being developed, and fund raising will begin later this year.