ITER Just Completed Magnet That Could Replicate Sun-like Energy

The international ITER project has completed the world’s largest superconducting magnet system, a key component designed to confine superheated plasma and generate fusion energy, SciTech Daily reported. This magnet system, weighing nearly 3,000 tons, forms the electromagnetic heart of the ITER Tokamak—a donut-shaped fusion reactor aiming to replicate the sun’s energy on Earth. The Central Solenoid magnet, built in the United States, is powerful enough to lift an aircraft carrier and will work alongside six ring-shaped magnets from Russia, Europe, and China.

ITER, a collaboration of over 30 countries, seeks to demonstrate fusion as a safe, carbon-free energy source. The magnet system confines ionized hydrogen plasma heated to 150 million degrees Celsius, enabling fusion reactions that release massive energy. At full operation, ITER aims to produce 500 megawatts of fusion power from 50 megawatts input, achieving a tenfold energy gain.

The project exemplifies global cooperation, with member nations contributing components and expertise. ITER also engages the private sector to accelerate fusion development. Currently, ITER is in the assembly phase, progressing toward a sustainable energy future.