Making Belgian Big Science

This article explores the history of MYRRHA research reactor currently under construction at Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN). The demonstrates that large instruments has obtained an essential role in moral economy modern nuclear laboratories. First, analysis on internal discussion within center reveals how MYRRHA’s transformation from a commercially oriented project into transmutation machine was primarily characterized by wish to upscale project. Second, focus European landscape collaboration led further upscaling project, having address technological requirements fit roadmaps. Third, emphasis interaction between and political public sphere shows constructed narrative made seem future center. Based archival material background interviews with key players, this contributes our understanding development Big Science post–Cold War era western Europe.