Valar Atomics’ Ward 250 reactor achieves criticality; eyes ramp to power by July

[Marlin]

Valar Atomics' Ward 250 reactor achieves criticality; eyes ramp to power by July 4

https://www.castlecountryradio.com/2026/06/18/valar-atomics-ward-250-reactor-achieves-criticality-eyes-ramp-to-power-by-july-4/

[Core Content]

Source: KOAl - Price,UT.

The Ward 250 reactor in Emery County, Utah, reached zero-power criticality on Thursday. This project is the first Department of Energy-authorized reactor constructed outside of a national laboratory. Valar Atomics plans to begin power ascension for the unit with the goal of reaching full-power operations by July 4, 2026.

A historic milestone was reached in Emery County Thursday afternoon, as Valar Atomics' Ward 250 reactor completed a zero-power fueled criticality demonstration.

Despite the intimidating name, criticality in a nuclear reactor means that it can produce an ongoing, stable chain reaction. According to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, this occurs when "each fission event releases a sufficient number of neutrons to sustain an ongoing series of reactions." This reaction is what leads to power generation for the reactor.

Read the full article at KOAl - Price,UT:
https://www.castlecountryradio.com/2026/06/18/valar-atomics-ward-250-reactor-achieves-criticality-eyes-ramp-to-power-by-july-4/