Here are two quotes from the Princeton University Plasma Physics Laboratory
(PPPL) Overview brochure. The first is an example of a narrowly defined
technical goal that is probably realistic and may well have been met (but I
wouldn't know):
"Radio frequency heating and current drive
Lower-hybrid range of frequencies experiments on PLT demonstrated current
drive, indicating that continuous plasma current in tokamaks is now
possible. Current-drive greatly improves the design and economics of a
fusion power plant. The concept is to adjust the velocity of the RF wave to
be near the average electron velocity such that the electrons are pushed
along as a surfer is pushed along by an ocean wave. An LHRF current drive
system is now installed on the PBX-M, where localized radio frequency
driven currents are expected to modify the plasma current profile in order
to improve plasma stability."
Here is a broad goal that has not been met, and which many experts believe
cannot be met:
"For four decades, PPPL has been a world leader in research and development
aimed primarily at the utilization of magnetic fusion energy as a safe,
economical, and environmentally acceptable method of generating electricity
for the long-term. The achievement of this goal is one of the world's
greatest technological challenges."
Note that the PPPL closed down some years ago, and ITER was supposed to be
its successor.
- Jed
