Progress and directions in magnetic fusion

Abstract

A panel discussion on progress in magnetic fusion is described. Considered are the achievements of experiments in reaching the conditions required for fusion power. The Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor is now finished and running, although not yet up to full design parameters. The prediction is that it should be able to reach the indicated range. The modified Doublet III, Doublet Big-Dee, will be starting to run in the '86 period and will endeavor to reach conditions similar to the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor by achieving larger beta values. An illustration shows experimental progress in achieving the conditions required for fusion power. At the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, a facility called the Mirror Fusion Test Facility is being designed to achieve about one second confinement time in a tandem mirror. An artist's rendering is shown. The Magnetic Fusion Advisory Committee has recently considered anew the future direction of the fusion program and judged that 1) TFCX and 2) the need to advance scientific understanding and develop optimal fusion reactor concepts constitute the two most essential tasks in the program.