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Support Nuclear History This Giving Tuesday

The National Atomic Testing Museum is participating in Giving Tuesday on December 2, with donations matched up to $25,000 to support preservation efforts. The campaign emphasizes the importance of safeguarding nuclear history and engaging the public through educational outreach. Contributions enhance displays and expand access to collections, ensuring lasting impact.

Editorsdesk Otto M. November 25, 2025 3 min read

Museum Joins Global Giving Tuesday Movement

The National Atomic Testing Museum has opened its annual call for support through the worldwide Giving Tuesday event. The Atomic Museum Giving campaign begins on Tuesday, Dec. 2. A $25,000 match will double every donation thanks to museum patrons John and Bonnie Longenecker.
Supporters can learn more at atomicmuseum.vegas.

A display in the National Atomic Testing Museum featuring a model of a nuclear device, with informational panels and a quote from J. Robert Oppenheimer about scientific freedom.

A Vital Story That Continues to Shape the Nation

The Nevada Test Site changed the course of American science, culture and policy. It also shaped global views on nuclear power and national defense. The National Atomic Testing Museum now protects this history with care.
Staff members gather rare items and preserve first-hand accounts from people who lived and worked through major events. These details offer an honest look at a period that still guides policy choices today.
Because this legacy is so important, the Atomic Museum Giving effort aims to support long-term work that protects these stories.

An informative display at the National Atomic Testing Museum titled 'Nuclear Reactions Lab' explaining the energy produced from nuclear reactions and the differences between fission and fusion.

Why Giving Tuesday Matters to the Mission

Giving Tuesday began as a simple idea to encourage generosity. However, the event is now a worldwide movement that inspires people to help their communities. The museum uses this day to highlight its mission and invite new supporters.
Every contribution helps the team protect artifacts, restore displays and grow educational outreach. Even small gifts help students, visitors and researchers explore new ideas based on old lessons.
The Atomic Museum Giving campaign supports these goals and keeps this work moving forward.

Preserving Artifacts and Expanding Public Access

The museum holds one of the nation’s most complete collections tied to atomic testing and nuclear research. These items offer direct insight into shifts in science and global security.
Many pieces need special care due to age and fragile materials. Donations help pay for climate control, repairs and secure storage. These steps protect each object for future study.
Funds also help expand displays that show how nuclear research shaped local communities, families and careers. New exhibits share new stories and engage younger visitors with clear and simple visuals.
This broad approach invites more people to learn, reflect and ask important questions.

An artistic close-up of a spherical object with intricate patterns in blue, green, and yellow colors, set against a black background.

Connecting Past Knowledge With Future Innovation

The museum highlights the role of science in daily life. It also shows how research in Nevada affected major national decisions. These themes help guests understand why past choices matter now.
With help from donors, the museum can grow workshops and create accessible online tools. These tools connect classrooms across the country with primary records and real accounts.
As a result, students gain a stronger sense of how innovation builds on careful study. This is another core goal behind the Atomic Museum Giving appeal.

An orange futuristic car model displayed in a glass case, featuring smooth curves and a unique design, with a blue lightning background.

How Donors Can Take Action

Anyone can support the museum’s work. Every gift made on Giving Tuesday will be matched, which doubles the impact. This structure encourages early action and builds momentum for the season.
Donations may be made online through the museum’s secure giving page. Supporters can access it here.
Even though the event lasts one day, its impact extends far beyond it. Each contribution helps secure the museum’s long-term future.

About the National Atomic Testing Museum

The National Atomic Testing Museum is operated by the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation. The foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) group based in Nevada.
The museum covers nuclear history from the first test in 1951 to the present. Exhibits also address current issues related to nuclear science and global safety.
Visitors may learn more at atomicmuseum.vegas and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

The Atomic Museum Giving campaign closes with one clear message: support history, support education and support the future through Atomic Museum Giving.