Taking the “training wheels” off clean energy
At the 2025 MIT Energy Conference, energy leaders from around the world discussed how to make green technologies competitive with fossil fuels.
Developing materials for stellar performance in fusion power plants
Zoe Fisher, a doctoral student in NSE, is researching how defects can alter the fundamental properties of ceramics upon radiation.
Will neutrons compromise the operation of superconducting magnets in a fusion plant?
Tests suggest these powerful magnets will not suffer immediate loss of performance during irradiation.
Unlocking the secrets of fusion’s core with AI-enhanced simulations
Fusion’s future depends on decoding plasma’s mysteries. Simulations can help keep research on track and reveal more efficient ways to generate fusion energy.
MIT spinout Commonwealth Fusion Systems unveils plans for the world’s first fusion power plant
The company has announced that it will build the first grid-scale fusion power plant in Chesterfield County, Virginia.
Transforming fusion from a scientific curiosity into a powerful clean energy source
Driven to solve hard problems, Associate Professor Zachary Hartwig is advancing a new approach to commercial fusion energy.
Ensuring a durable transition
Progress on the energy transition depends on collective action benefiting all stakeholders, agreed participants in MITEI’s annual research conference.
Smart handling of neutrons is crucial to fusion power success
Assistant Professor Ethan Peterson is addressing some of the practical, overlooked issues that need to be worked out for viable fusion power plants.
Study: Fusion energy could play a major role in the global response to climate change
Experts in energy systems modeling and fusion technology explore the future role of fusion at various costs and carbon constraints.
More durable metals for fusion power reactors
MIT researchers have found a way to make structural materials last longer under the harsh conditions inside a fusion reactor.
Studying astrophysically relevant plasma physics
Thomas Varnish has always loved a hands-on approach to science. Research in lab-based astrophysics has enabled the PhD student to experiment in a heavily theoretical subject.
Nuno Loureiro named director of MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center
A lauded professor, theoretical physicist, and fusion scientist, Loureiro is keenly positioned to advance the center’s research and education goals.
Future nuclear power reactors could rely on molten salts — but what about corrosion?
MIT researchers show that using the right metals could alleviate the corrosion problem in these promising new reactor designs.
Tests show high-temperature superconducting magnets are ready for fusion
Detailed study of magnets built by MIT and Commonwealth Fusion Systems confirms they meet requirements for an economic, compact fusion power plant.