‘ATOMIC ODYSSEY’ attraction/exhibit deep-dives into the fascinating world of the atom…
It’s been over seventy years since President Dwight D. Eisenhower delivered his “Atoms For Peace” speech to the United Nations. Three decades later, Americans were still fearing the threat of nuclear devastation. In 2025, we’re hopefully more enlightened about the significance of the atom. A fun new exhibit at ATOMIC MUSEUM will broaden our grasp even further.
Museum-style attractions have popped up all over the city, but ATOMIC MUSEUM is one of the first. The rich history of nuclear testing near Las Vegas makes its location in Sin City all the more fascinating. Previously known as the “National Atomic Testing Museum”, the facility was renamed in 2022 to reflect its larger appeal.
Video presentation via Wild Travels
Ever wonder what it would be like to observe a nuclear detonation from a safe distance? The Earth-shattering Ground Zero Theater simulator puts you there. Vintage machinery and instruments, photos and videos covering atomic tests in the Nevada desert…they’re all included, along with pieces of the Berlin Wall and the World Trade Center.
As part of its exciting mission, Atomic Museum features limited-time exhibits built around a single subject. One of the most popular featured Area 51 and the mystery of visitors from other worlds. Another focused on the history of J. Robert Oppenheimer. This week, the museum will look inward to the microscopic universe of the atom itself.
ATOMIC ODYSSEY is an interactive exhibit designed to give visitors a hands-on understanding of the atom. Three individual “labs” explore a different aspect of the atomic world:
Atomic Structure Lab: Visitors will investigate the building blocks of matter—protons, neutrons, and electrons—and explore the atomic structure in depth.
Nuclear Reactions Lab: This section allows guests to explore the power of nuclear reactions, including fission and fusion, and their impact on energy production and the universe.
Radiation Lab: Guests will learn about radiation in its various forms, its applications in medical technology, and how it affects our world, all while ensuring a safe, educational environment.
From building elements and isotopes to triggering nuclear reactions, participants will deepen their understanding of how atomic science shapes our daily lives and the universe itself.
“We’ve partnered with exhibit designers who bring vast experience from Universal and Disney attractions to ensure ‘Atomic Odyssey’ is both a captivating and educational experience,” said Rob McCoy, chief executive officer of Atomic Museum. “Our goal is to inspire curiosity about the atomic world and give visitors a better understanding of the critical role nuclear science plays in everything from energy production to space exploration to personal reflection.”
“Atomic Odyssey” will feature inspiring artworks by James Stanford, the renowned artist featured in the brand-new book, “The Atomic Kid: An Aesthetic Formed in the Nuclear Landscape.” Stanford grew up in Las Vegas during the Atomic Age and was employed as a technical artist in Nevada’s nuclear industry during the 1970s, where he acquired extensive knowledge of nuclear energy.
His dynamic lenticular compositions start with photographic images—often of historic nuclear tests—which he digitally transforms into stunning artworks. Inside Atomic Odyssey, the 3D, light-responsive lenticulars will morph and shift as visitors walk through the exhibit.
Stanford’s art speaks to his personal history of growing up during the Atomic Age, adding a distinctive visual and narrative layer to the exhibit’s exploration of the atomic world.
Atomic Odyssey will debut with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 9th at 5 pm. VEGAS 411 will be on hand to cover the event. Speakers will include:
- Joseph Kent, deputy director and curator, Atomic Museum.
- Matthew Malinowski, director of education, Atomic Museum.
- Artist James Stanford.
Local dignitaries will also join the opening, underscoring the exhibit’s significance to the community.
To purchase tickets or learn more about ATOMIC MUSEUM, visit the official website here. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm (the last admission will be at 4 pm). All ages are welcome. ATOMIC MUSEUM is located at 755 E. Flamingo Rd. Parking is free.
