RBMK-1000 Simulation
Understanding the Physics Behind Chernobyl
An interactive educational simulator reconstructing the April 26, 1986 reactor catastrophe through rigorous physics modelling and historical documentation. Free and open source.
The Story
A guided walkthrough of the 15 key events from April 25 to April 26, 1986. Observe reactor parameters change in real time with expert annotations.
Begin the Story →Be the Operator
Take the role of the Unit 4 shift operator. Control rods, pumps, and safety systems. Diverge from history at 7 critical decision points.
Enter the Control Room →The Physics Lab
Seven interactive demonstrations of the physics concepts that made the RBMK-1000 uniquely dangerous: void coefficient, xenon poisoning, and more.
Explore the Physics →About This Project
This simulator uses real nuclear physics models, point kinetics with six delayed neutron groups, void coefficient feedback, xenon dynamics, Doppler broadening, and more, all running in your browser. Every parameter is sourced from published data including the INSAG-7 report and standard nuclear engineering references.
The goal is education: to help people understand not just what happened at Chernobyl, but why, the physics that made the RBMK-1000 uniquely vulnerable, and the decisions that pushed it past its limits.
Dedicated to the memory of those who responded to the Chernobyl disaster, the firefighters, plant workers, and liquidators who sacrificed their health and lives to contain the catastrophe.
This simulation is an educational tool, not a game. It treats the events with the gravity they deserve.