China has set a new record in the quest for fusion energy. 

The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), known as China’s “artificial sun”, has achieved a new global milestone by maintaining high-confinement plasma for 1,066 seconds. 

This feat marks a significant step toward achieving nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source.

The tokamak, a device designed to mimic the nuclear fusion process that powers the Sun and other stars, uses powerful magnetic fields to confine plasma at extreme temperatures, enabling fusion reactions. 

The record, set by the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Plasma Physics, surpasses EAST’s previous record of 403 seconds set in 2023.

“A fusion device must achieve stable operation at high efficiency for thousands of seconds to enable the self-sustaining circulation of plasma, which is essential for the continuous power generation of future fusion plants,” said Director of the Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP), Song Yuntao.

The new record was made possible by enhancements to the tokamak’s systems, including a heating system upgrade. The system now delivers double the power, equivalent to the energy of 140,000 household microwaves, ensuring operational stability.

Nuclear fusion research, pursued globally for over 70 years, aims to provide a near-limitless, clean energy source. 

However, challenges such as sustaining plasma at over 100 million degrees Celsius and achieving stable operation remain significant.

Since its launch in 2006, EAST has become an international hub for fusion research. 

Its findings contribute to projects such as the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a multinational endeavour under construction in France, and China’s planned Fusion Engineering Test Reactor.

In Hefei, Anhui Province, new research facilities are being developed to accelerate fusion energy’s real-world application.

“We hope to expand international collaboration via EAST and bring fusion energy into practical use for humanity,” Song said.

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