The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is an unprecedentedly large and ambitious scientific project – still in the works -- that hopes to one day help solve the world’s energy crisis.
The goal of ITER is to mimic the sun by using thermonuclear fusion to create energy. But to do this, the reactor will need to be able to contain and withstand materials that will hit temperatures ten times as hot as the sun’s core.
To work toward a solution, an international collaboration of 35 countries is putting in billions of dollars and countless hours into building the reactor in the south of France. The end goal is to have a reactor that produces more energy than is put into it – what scientists call ‘net energy gain.' If successful, the project could be a historic step towards solving the world’s energy crisis.
ITER is thought to be the most challenging scientific project ever, even more so than any space mission. It is hoped that it will be ready to run its first experiment in 2020.
Sun-Like Energy Creators
'ITER' Could Solve the World's Energy Crisis
Trend Themes
1. Thermonuclear Energy - The development of ITER could lead to advancements in thermonuclear energy production, potentially creating a more sustainable and efficient energy source for the future.
2. International Scientific Collaboration - ITER signifies the potential for increased international scientific collaboration and could lead to further breakthroughs in various scientific fields.
3. Advanced Materials Science - The construction of ITER requires the development of advanced materials science capabilities to contain and withstand extremely high temperatures, which could lead to innovations in materials science applications.
Industry Implications
1. Energy - The success of ITER could revolutionize the energy industry and potentially lead to a more sustainable and efficient way to produce energy.
2. Construction - The building of ITER is a massive undertaking that requires advanced construction techniques and technologies, and could potentially lead to disruptive innovations in the construction industry.
3. Scientific Research - ITER is an unprecedentedly large and challenging scientific project that requires collaboration across various scientific fields and could potentially lead to groundbreaking breakthroughs in those areas.