The brief

Analyst view

• Unity achieved criticality at INL June 30, 2026, after ~150 days of construction.
• 1 MWe water-moderated, helium-cooled microreactor for rapid field deployment and remote power.
• One of four US microreactors reaching criticality in early July 2026.

Technical approach

As reported

Water-moderated helium cooling

Brayton cycle

Water moderates the nuclear reaction. Helium circulates through the core and drives a turbine, converting heat to electricity.

Compact size

1 MWe microreactor

Small enough for portable deployment and rapid on-site assembly.