Chernobyl Collection

Chernobyl - Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine.

On April 26, 1986, the largest nuclear disaster in history took place behind the Soviet Iron Curtain. Thereafter, and in the decades that followed, Rudy Mancke and the team continued to document Chernobyl in the aftermath. The archival collection provides an opportunity to watch as scientists and historians gather their findings and gives us a chance to learn from this historical event as well.

The Chernobyl event had ramifications not just to the immediate area, but for the world. We are pleased to bring you this trove of science and history from the ETV Tape Vault as well SCETV's newest educational video asset, The Chernobyl Disaster 40th Anniversary Special from History in a Nutshell!

 

Chernobyl Disaster 40th Anniversary Special | History in a Nutshell

This episode of History In A Nutshell commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster.  

The Chernobyl disaster, which occurred on April 26, 1986, remains the worst nuclear accident in history. Its effects are still felt across Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia decades later.

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Chernobyl Cover Picture History in a Nutshell

NatureScene Visits Chernobyl (2003)

Naturalist Rudy Mancke and host, Jim Welch travel to Chernobyl, Ukraine in May 2003 to document the on the ground situation following the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl in 1986.

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Rudy Mancke and Jim Welch visit Chernobyl in 2003 in this NatureScene Special.

Nature Comes Back: Pulling Back the Curtain, Part 1 (2011)

Twenty-five years ago, the largest nuclear disaster in history took place behind the Soviet iron curtain. Naturalists, scientists and historians discuss the ongoing recovery of the lands around Chernobyl and the effects upon the people who live there. At the time of the accident, little information came out from behind the Soviet Iron Curtain and the ETV and USC team were able to get unprecedented access.

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Nature Comes Back: Reflecting on the Impact, Part 2 (2011)

The panel discussed the effects that Chernobyl had on nature, nuclear science, US / Soviet relations and the people who had worked there and called Chernobyl home.  

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Nature Comes Back Panel.

Nature Comes Back: Observing the Return of Life, Part 3 (2011)

Rudy delved into resettlers, commensal species, and radionuclides, and he noted with some excitement, that the white storks had returned to the area and were building their nests. Many species like the storks thrive where people live. We learn about the reptiles, mammals and other birds that had come back to Chernobyl in the aftermath. Panelists talk about nuclear reactors and human error and safeguarding these systems as a means of reducing likelihood of further disasters.

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The Chernobyl Event: An Update After 35 Years  (2021)

In this treasure from the ETV Tape Vault, we attend a panel discussion in 2021, marking the 35th anniversary of the largest nuclear disaster in history. Discussing the outcomes set in place by the disaster occurring on April 26, 1986, naturalist Rudy Mancke and guests, participated in  a comprehensive discussion highlighting the impact on humans and nature, scientific research, and actions to make the contaminated site safer.

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Chernobyl Event - 35 Years After | Reactor 2021