Scientists achieve fusion power milestone, creating “burning plasma” for the first time

by Peter Schulte

Scientists at the U.S.’s National Ignition Facility in Livermore, California have for the first time ever achieved “burning plasma” where fusion reactions create more energy than was used to create them, according to New Atlas. While this “burning plasma” state lasted mere nanoseconds, it stands as an important milestone and proof-of-concept for fusion power.

For decades, fusion power has been thought of as the holy grail of energy generation. Under this theoretical form of power, we mimic the nuclear reactions found in the Sun to create self-sustaining, limitless, zero-carbon energy. If achieved, fusion power would offer a critical and potentially game-changing tool for combating the climate crisis and greatly accelerate our economic development efforts worldwide.

However, while scientists have long hoped such power might be possible, it has been far beyond the grasp of our current scientific understanding and technological capacity. This new landmark achievement brings us one step closer.