Japan watchdog to halt test reactor over safety
The fast-breeder reactor Monju stands in Tsuruga, Fukui prefecture, on the Sea of Japan coast, Wednesday, May 15, 2013. Japan's nuclear watchdog decided that the nation's trouble-plagued next-generation prototype reactor won't be allowed to restart due to safety violations. The Nuclear Regulation Authority's announcement Wednesday is another blow to the Monju fast-breeder reactor, which the pro-nuclear government hopes will be key to plans for atomic waste disposal. Monju uses plutonium fuel instead of conventional uranium and produces radioactive substances that can be reused as fuel. After nearly 50 years in the works, the reactor is still struggling to get online. (AP Photo/Kyodo News) JAPAN OUT, MANDATORY CREDIT