DOE EHSS-11 2024 WebEx Presented: Ignition and the Implications for National Security and an Inertial Fusion Energy Future

Dr. Tammy Ma from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) presented on the first controlled fusion experiment in history to reach scientific energy breakeven, producing more energy from fusion than the laser energy used to drive it. In that experiment, 2.05 MJ of laser energy was delivered to the target and a fusion energy output of 3.15 MJ was achieved, a gain of 1.5. Since then, ignition has been repeated four times, and in July 2023, the gain was further pushed to 1.9. This WebEx discussed the National Ignition Facility (NIF) - the world's largest, most energetic laser, and the latest experimental results. The WebEx also presented information on the implications for future research, both in national security and how this achievement of ignition lays the groundwork to explore laser inertial fusion as a path for clean energy and energy security. A safety experience was also provided prior to the main topic.

A link to the recording of the July 2024 Webex Series - Ignition and the Implications for National Security and an Inertial Fusion Energy Future is included below:
WS&H Webex Series | Department of Energy

For more information about Worker Safety and Health Policy please click on the link below:
Worker Safety and Health Policy | Department of Energy