Construction has begun on the ATLAS advanced research center at the foothills campus of the State University of Colorado (CSU). The new complex, which is being developed by a public-private partnership, aims to strengthen the US potential in the field of thermonuclear synthesis and the development of thermonuclear energy (source).
The ATLAS center will feature a system of high-intensity lasers with a high frequency of impulse repetition that can simultaneously target one thermonuclear target. The total radiation power is expected to reach almost 7 Petavatts, significantly higher than the current US electrogeneration capabilities. The laser beam will be focused on a point comparable in size to a human hair for about 100 quadrillionths of a second.
The design of the complex allows for the use of three super-powerful lasers both in combination and separately for various scientific tasks. CSU President Amy Parsons highlighted the university’s experience in developing laser technologies and the significance of having one of the most powerful laser facilities in the world at the CSU research center during the foundation bookmark ceremony.
Besides studying thermonuclear synthesis, the ATLAS complex will also explore medical applications of lasers, such as pinpoint exposure to cancer tumors. The technologies developed will have uses in microchip production and creating detailed X-ray images of moving objects, including aviation engine turbines during operation.
Hike Froind, the operating director of Marvel Fusion, a partner company, emphasized the potential of thermonuclear energy as an environmentally friendly energy source with vast possibilities. The launch of the new complex is expected to significantly expand CSU’s research capabilities, according to CSU Vice President Cassandra Moslie.
The ATLAS complex is scheduled to be operational by mid-2026.