23 Oct 2025
The MIT Maritime Consortium has released the Nuclear Ship Safety Handbook, a guide aimed at establishing safety standards for civilian nuclear-powered ships. As global shipping seeks carbon-free solutions, nuclear propulsion emerges as a promising alternative. However, outdated regulations and limited public guidance have hindered progress. This handbook provides grounded insights into reactor design, safety protocols, and regulatory frameworks. Developed by an interdisciplinary MIT team, it draws on historical data, operational experience, and recent international agreements like the U.S.-U.K. Technology Prosperity Deal. The handbook supports efforts to modernize maritime nuclear policies and foster global collaboration. Industry leaders, including ABS and HD Korea Shipbuilding, hail it as a milestone for safe, sustainable innovation. Available via MIT Libraries, the handbook is expected to influence future shipbuilding, port operations, and energy resilience strategies. It marks a critical step toward revitalizing U.S. shipbuilding and advancing nuclear maritime technology responsibly. Read more