PREVIEW

Scientists Break Record for Most Energy Produced in a Fusion Reaction. 'Vice' reports that a lab in Britain has set a new record for producing the most energy in a fusion reaction. The achievement paves the way for the next generation of fusion reactors and brings the planet closer to possessing boundless clean energy. The Joint European Torus (JET) reactor managed to produce 60 megajoules of output in a reaction lasting 5.2 seconds. "Beyond setting a new record, we achieved things we’ve never done before and deepened our understanding of fusion physics." Ambrogio Fasoli, Program Manager at EUROfusion, via 'Vice'. 'Vice' reports that JET is a tokamak reactor, which is one of the two favored designs for developing practical fusion tech. Experts say that bringing fusion experiments to a commercial plant presents a number of engineering challenges to overcome. "JET has operated as close to powerplant conditions as is possible with today’s facilities, and its legacy will be pervasive in all future power plants." "It has a critical role in bringing us closer to a safe and sustainable future." Sir Ian Chapman, U.K. Atomic Energy Authority CEO, via 'Vice'. JET's achievement was the final accomplishment for a multi-nation experiment, as the reactor has since been decommissioned. In late 2025, JET's replacement, the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a larger project that includes 37 countries, will launch. "Our successful demonstration of operational scenarios for future fusion machines like ITER and DEMO, validated by the new energy record, instill greater confidence in the development of fusion energy." Ambrogio Fasoli, Program Manager at EUROfusion, via ‘Vice’. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT