A startup based in the UK, known for its work in advancing technology in thermonuclear fusion energy, has recently made a significant breakthrough in its innovative synthesis technology. First Light Fusion, a spin-off from Oxford University, has successfully tested its “electric gun” designed to ignite fuel in the core of its test reactor.
This milestone comes shortly after another breakthrough achieved by an American test facility, bringing the prospect of sustainable thermonuclear fusion closer to reality. By utilizing the electric gun technology, the company has managed to increase the distance the initial projectile travels by a factor of ten. Previously, pulsed power was used for electromagnetic launch of projectiles, achieving a maximum deviation distance of 1 cm.
“This significant advancement paves the way for addressing a key engineering challenge in the development of energy plants based on thermonuclear fusion using projectile technology. It marks a crucial step in the company’s design efforts, with the aim of developing a pilot plant capable of demonstrating energy production through fusion for commercial purposes,” explained First Light in a press release.
First Light focuses on nuclear fusion research using a unique method known as inertial confinement fusion. This method involves launching a projectile at high speeds to generate the temperatures and pressures needed to initiate a fusion reaction.
By rapidly accelerating the projectile towards the fuel target, the process creates the conditions necessary for fusion. This process can be likened to a spark plug igniting fuel in an internal combustion engine.
“The point of synthesis explosion occurs at the distance between the starting point of the projectile and the target,” emphasized First Light.
First Light faces the challenge of increasing the distance between the projectile and the target in its fusion reactor. Through the use of the electric gun method, the startup has managed to extend the projectile range to up to 10 cm, representing a tenfold improvement over previous records.
“The objective is to launch a projectile at speeds of several kilometers per second with precision, maintaining its solid state upon impact with the fusion fuel. This is a critical aspect of First Light’s approach, requiring high-speed and accurate projectile launch,” added First Light.