China approves first thorium molten salt nuclear reactor

Plus: Euclid space telescope to explore dark energy and dark matter like never before In what could be a historic development for the energy industry, China has granted authorization for the construction of their first thorium-based molten salt nuclear reactor. While uranium has traditionally been the primary fuel for nuclear reactors, thorium offers several advantages, including its abundance and reduced nuclear waste production. However, effectively harnessing thorium’s potential has been a long-standing challenge. The new TMSR-LF1 reactor aims to overcome these obstacles and unlock the vast possibilities of thorium-based nuclear power. We have the full story in our [Must Read article]( below. But first, here’s [your video of the day](. Good morning. I’m Tim, an Editor at IE. This is the Blueprint. Let’s start the week. Yesterday, Blueprint subscribers learned about several nuclear propulsion options for future spacecraft. Don't miss out — [subscribe to IE+]( to receive exclusive interviews, features, and much more. VIDEO OF THE DAY [3d printed firearms]( [The controversial world of 3d printed firearms]( 3D printing guns at home is becoming easier. Is it safe to allow people to obtain firearms this easily? MUST READ [Nuclear reactor in China]( [‘Green light’ given for first thorium molten salt nuclear reactor in China]( China has granted official approval for the commissioning of a thorium-based molten salt nuclear reactor. It’s a significant milestone in the country's nuclear energy ambitions. The reactor, known as "Thorium Molten Salt Reactor - Liquid Fuel 1" (TMSR-LF1), has been under construction since 2018 and holds the potential to revolutionize the nuclear industry. With this authorization, China becomes the first country to take a significant step towards harnessing the power of thorium for clean and abundant energy generation. [Read More]( SCIENCE Euclid space telescope to explore dark energy and dark matter like never before On July 1, Euclid will begin its exciting journey across the solar system, taking a month to reach the second Lagrange point, a destination 150 million km from Earth where it will be able to investigate dark energy and dark matter. [Read More]( THE SPONSOR OF THE DAY [Benjamin Franklin couldn’t have been more right when he said this!]( For every minute spent in organising, an hour is earned. A well-organized lifestyle can save you precious time in every area of your life. For instance, this [Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Organizer]( keeps your keeps all your cutl ery in one place and takes all the hassle out of cooking, while also saving time and storage space. No more rummaging through the drawers when have the cutlery visible all at once before your eyes for quick and convenient use. Get this Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Organizer and remove all the stress that comes with a cluttered drawer! 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[Yes]( [No]( [Maybe]( [We should reduce energy consumption]( YESTERDAY'S RESULTS A majority 55 percent of you agree that reforestation would stop rainforest fires, but 18 percent believe this is a vain hope. 55% It might reduce 20% I'm not sure 18% It's a dreamworld 7% The fires will stop QUOTE OF THE DAY Many countries consider thorium as both a viable and very attractive option for generating power and meeting their growing energy needs. 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