This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/21/2025
Important object in the history of mankind, graphite from CP-1 (Chicago Pile 1), the first nuclear energy reactor which launched the first successful atomic energy experiment, giving life to the nuclear age. Enrico Fermi conducted the experiment on 2 December 1942 at the University of Chicago, reaching critical mass for a self-sustaining reaction at 3:25 pm, and lasting for 28 minutes. After the experiment, a coded message was relayed to James Conant, Chairman of the National Defense Research Committee, and the Manhattan Project was thus launched, leading to the creation of atomic energy bombs less than three years later. Stick of graphite measures 3'' x .75'' x .75'', encased in a lucite block measuring 3.75'' x 2.625'' x 1.5'', one of the small number given to University of Chicago alumni donors. A very rare and important piece of the first nuclear energy reactor that changed the course of history.