The ITER project

Abstract

ITER (the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) is an international collaborative project aimed at demonstrating the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion energy for peaceful purposes. It is the next step for the magnetic fusion development programs of the four participants-the European Union, Japan, Russia, and the United States. This paper reports progress of the engineering design activities (EDA) for ITER. ITER's position in the four parties' fusion programs is outlined, the main elements of the design are introduced, and progress is summarized in physics and technology R&D that support the design activities. The outlook for the future is reviewed, particularly the desirability of making timely progress toward construction of ITER.