US lab stands on threshold of key nuclear fusion goal

[Robert]

A US science institute is on the verge of achieving a longstanding goal in nuclear fusion research.
The National Ignition Facility uses a powerful laser to heat and compress hydrogen fuel, initiating fusion.
An experiment suggests the goal of "ignition", where the energy released by fusion exceeds that delivered by the laser, is now within touching distance.

The research takes place at the National Ignition Facility in Livermore, California.


Call me a cynical old bastard but I feel as though it's been "within touching distance" for decades.

 

[cecilia]

I feel as though it's been "within touching distance" for decades.

LOL, that's how science works.

in fact everything important in life works that way

 

[Robert]

Same lab as last year with an update:

Fusion energy breakthrough by US scientists boosts clean power hopes​

First-ever net-energy gain from fusion raises hopes for zero-carbon alternative.​

I love this image of the chamber. Evokes 1970s sci-fi: