May 1, 2025
Global nuclear fusion initiative reaches a milestone with the most powerful magnet in the world.
A long-delayed nuclear fusion project involving over 30 countries is set to assemble the world's most powerful magnet, crucial for generating clean energy through atom collisions at extremely high temperatures. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, located in southern France and supported by the U.S., China, Japan, Russia, and the European Union, requires this magnetic system to create an "invisible cage" that confines super-hot plasma particles for fusion energy release.
On Wednesday, ITER announced the completion and testing of the final component, the central solenoid, by the United States, and assembly has begun. ITER's director general, Pietro Barabaschi, likened the magnet to a wine bottle, noting its importance in the overall process.
The magnet was initially expected to be finished by 2021, but has faced multiple delays. Charles Seife, a New York University professor who covers nuclear fusion, stated that being four years behind schedule after a decade of effort highlights the project's difficulties.
Barabaschi mentioned that the "crisis" has passed and that construction is advancing at the fastest rate in ITER's history, with plans to start generating plasma in 2033. He emphasized that the project demonstrates international cooperation despite geopolitical issues, noting strong unity among participating countries.
Investment in fusion is increasing, with various initiatives in progress. Some private startups claim they can develop commercial fusion reactors within ten years. While Barabaschi remains skeptical yet supportive of these global ventures, he questions whether fusion can be achieved cost-effectively. He expressed doubts about reaching this goal in the next one or two decades, suggesting it will take longer.
On Wednesday, ITER announced the completion and testing of the final component, the central solenoid, by the United States, and assembly has begun. ITER's director general, Pietro Barabaschi, likened the magnet to a wine bottle, noting its importance in the overall process.
The magnet was initially expected to be finished by 2021, but has faced multiple delays. Charles Seife, a New York University professor who covers nuclear fusion, stated that being four years behind schedule after a decade of effort highlights the project's difficulties.
Barabaschi mentioned that the "crisis" has passed and that construction is advancing at the fastest rate in ITER's history, with plans to start generating plasma in 2033. He emphasized that the project demonstrates international cooperation despite geopolitical issues, noting strong unity among participating countries.
Investment in fusion is increasing, with various initiatives in progress. Some private startups claim they can develop commercial fusion reactors within ten years. While Barabaschi remains skeptical yet supportive of these global ventures, he questions whether fusion can be achieved cost-effectively. He expressed doubts about reaching this goal in the next one or two decades, suggesting it will take longer.