DRI, Atomic Museum Launch Free Field Trip Program Titled “Exploring the Invisible” for Grades 6-12

With Limited Availability, Educators Invited to Apply Here

LAS VEGAS (September 2025) – DRI, in partnership with the Atomic Museum, announces an innovative and accessible field trip program titled “Exploring the Invisible: A Hands-On Journey into Radiation Science.” Designed to ignite curiosity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as well as connect students to Nevada’s rich history, the field trip includes free admission and transportation for participants.

The two-and-a-half-hour field trip is open to 6th-12th grade students. It includes a guided tour of Atomic Museum exhibits as well as a hands-on science lab conducted by DRI. During the lab, students will participate in interactive experiments that explore the fundamentals of radiation science and its role in history, technology and everyday life.

A museum exhibit featuring information on radiation.
The Atomic Museum’s Atomic Odyssey Exhibit.

“‘Exploring the Invisible’ is designed to spark curiosity and provide students with meaningful, experiential learning opportunities,” said Matt Malinowski, director of education, Atomic Museum. “By combining Nevada’s nuclear legacy with DRI’s expertise in radiation science, we are creating a program that inspires the next generation of scientists, innovators and leaders.”

“We are able to make these field trips possible thanks to a grant from the Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management,” said Monica Gehrig, STEM Education Training and Outreach Administrator, DRI. “This funding allows us to expand our partnership with the Atomic Museum and introduce Nevada’s middle and high school students to hands-on lessons in radiation science introducing the next generation to the knowledge and technical skills needed for employment in Nevada National Security Sites applicable fields.”

A museum exhibit featuring nuclear reactions and fusion.
The Atomic Museum’s Nuclear Reactions Lab.

The program is available on select Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the DRI and Atomic Museum campus, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and concluding at 12 p.m. Admission costs for students, educators and official chaperones are waived, and transportation reimbursement is available for participating schools and organizations as funding permits. Up to 60 students may attend on a single date, with a minimum chaperone ratio of one per 10 students.

Due to high demand, space is limited. If interest exceeds available dates, a lottery system will be used to select organizations in the interest of fairness and inclusion. For more information or to apply, click here.

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