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Salaspils Research Center

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Salaspils Research Center (Latvia)

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The Salaspils Research Center was home to Latvia's only nuclear reactor and currently serves as a focal point for nuclear decommissioning and advanced scientific research. The facility, a 5 MW Soviet-designed swimming-pool-type reactor, was commissioned in 1961 and dedicated to fundamental research in physics, chemistry, and biology for several decades. Following Latvia's restoration of independence, operations were ceased in 1998 due to economic and safety considerations. Since then, the center has been engaged in complex decommissioning processes conducted under international safety standards. Despite the reactor's shutdown, Salaspils remains a vital scientific site, particularly through the University of Latvia's Institute of Physics, which maintains laboratories on the premises. Current core activities include radioactive waste management and environmental monitoring. Salaspils is also integrated into European research networks focusing on materials science and radiation protection. The transformation of this site illustrates the significant challenges involved in managing nuclear legacies within the Baltic States.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-5-5-15111518171372-2
Rain mm594846485276828059787463

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Salaspils Research Center houses scientific and technological research facilities with a focus on innovation. It serves as a key location for Latvian research and development projects.
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Visiting
The facility is generally not open to the public but is visible from nearby roads. Guided tours are occasionally arranged for groups by appointment, though not on a regular basis.
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Where to view it
The best viewpoint is from the road passing by the site, especially near the main entrance. From there you can see the modern research buildings and the well-maintained surroundings.
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Local products
The center does not produce consumer goods but generates intellectual property and technology transfer. Visitors can purchase local products from nearby shops in the region.
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Active season
The research facility is active year-round with peak periods during academic project cycles. In summer, staffing is often lighter but work continues continuously.
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Nearby
Combine a visit with the nearby Salaspils reservoir and recreation areas around the Daugava. The town center of Salaspils with its shops and cafés is also worth a detour.

Geography

Coordinates
56.85360, 24.35780

Facts

  • The Salaspils nuclear reactor achieved criticality for the first time on September 26, 1961.
  • The maximum thermal output of the research reactor was 5 megawatts (MW).
  • Reactor operations were permanently terminated on June 19, 1998.
  • Highly enriched nuclear fuel was transported back to Russia in 2008.
  • The center is managed by the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre.
  • The total costs for complete decommissioning are estimated at several million euros.

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Salaspils Research Center (7)

Botania🏛 museum

Museum in Salaspils featuring botanical exhibits.

🕒 We-Su 10:00-18:00

Kurmīškalns

Viewpoint hill in Salaspils with a wide panorama.

Steam lokomobile

Historic steam engine, a technical monument.

Salaspils kultūras nams "Enerģētiķis"

Community cultural house in Salaspils for events.

Salaspils pilsdrupas

Castle ruins in Salaspils, medieval remains.

Daugmales pilskalns

Hill fort in Latvia, an archaeological site.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the research reactor still in operation?
No, the reactor was shut down in 1998 and is currently being decommissioned.
Can I visit the research center?
Access is strictly regulated; there are no regular tourist tours.
What was the reactor used for?
It was used for scientific research in nuclear physics and materials science.
Is the site radioactive?
The site is constantly monitored; there is no radiation danger to the surroundings.
What is an alternative in Salaspils?
Visit the National Botanical Garden (Nacionālais botāniskais dārzs) nearby.
Salaspils Research Center: where is it located?
Salaspils Research Center is located in Latvia.
Salaspils Research Center: what is there to see?
Highlights include Botania, Studija"RADI", Kurmīškalns.
Salaspils Research Center: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Salaspils Research Center: why is it worth visiting?
The Salaspils Research Center was home to Latvia's only nuclear reactor and currently serves as a focal point for nuclear decommissioning and advanced scientific research.
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History & landmarks

Pļaviņas — Salaspils Research Center (Latvia)
Pļaviņas
A town at the confluence of the Daugava and Aiviekste rivers, known for its scenic riverbanks and transport history.
Sabile — Salaspils Research Center (Latvia)
Sabile
A historic small town in the Abava Valley, famous for the northernmost vineyard in the world and its artistic charm.

More places

Jurmala City Museum — Salaspils Research Center (Latvia)
Jurmala City Museum
This museum in Jūrmala documents the history of the resort town.