The binge started with an attempt to replace testing with simulation for the country’s nuclear stockpile. One of the problems were the unrealistic speed claims made for the computational hardware, which often neglected real world issues like disk-transfer rates require to store results. The machines, some provided by Cray, never were up to the challenge.

Unfortunately, as long as our representatives are willing to load bills with earmarks to fund the latest “super” computer project in their home state, the race to the most “flops” will continue to be a race to nowhere.

Idea for ORNL, use your Cray to run tests or models on how a MSR or LFTR would function. You’d deal with something of real value: using Thorium as atomic fuel; recycling “used” uranium fuel; providing vast, affordable energy to grids of varying development and capacity; provide fresh water through desalination and the gradual replacement of coal-fired power plants will allow the environment to take care of itself.