A defining moment in the development of fusion power came in the 1950s when, flushed with the apparent success of early experiments, a respected researcher made the prediction that fusion power would be developed within 50 years. This statement has come back to haunt the programme 50 years later, as the energy source is still at least 50 years away from commercialisation. Public incredulity is understandable, but the delay is a direct result of the complex and specialised challenges to be faced in developing this potentially attractive and very long-term energy source. However, there is steady progress towards the goal.

Inspec keywords: fusion reactors; nuclear fusion

Other keywords: fusion power; commercialisation; fusion development; energy source

Subjects: Fusion reactors