Virtual Visit to Research Reactor IPEN/MB-01

The world is currently facing a significant challenge due to the widespread dissemination of misinformation, compounded by a lack of effective strategies to combat it. The nuclear sector is particularly affected by it, with several people of the general public knowing very little or nothing at all about nuclear reactors, nuclear energy and nuclear technology, leaving them vulnerable to misinformation. The Covid-19 pandemic, alongside modern social dynamics, highlighted this modern social problem. It also forced all activities into an online environment, which was detrimental in terms of the spread of misinformation but also created educational opportunities. This paper focuses on the methodology and development of a 3D virtual environment of the IPEN/MB-01, which is an initial step in a larger educational project concerning a virtual guided tour and virtual educational environment projects of the same reactor, using education as a method of prebunking students about misinformation concerning the nuclear field, and enhancing access for students who are far from the CNEN facilities and to schools who cannot visit due to age restrictions. The work focuses on the development with a realistic approach as recent literature supports the notion that highly immersive virtual reality environments enhance learning outcomes. The final virtual environment provides a foundation for developing diverse projects, each with a specific educational focus or approach. Additionally, the methodology described here can be easily adapted to different reactors or facilities, enabling institutions to create their own educational virtual environments.