Harnessing nuclear fusion—the process that powers the Sun and stars—has been a beacon of hope for scientists and energy pioneers alike. Unlike nuclear fission, which splits heavy atomic nuclei, fusion combines light atomic nuclei, such as isotopes of hydrogen, to release immense amounts of energy. This energy, derived from the fusion of hydrogen into helium, has the potential to provide humanity with an almost limitless, carbon-free, and sustainable source of power. Nuclear fusion offers profound advantages over existing energy sources. Its primary fuel sources—deuterium (extracted from seawater) and tritium (produced in reactors)—are abundant and widely available. A gram of fusion fuel can make as much energy as burning 10 tonnes of coal, underscoring its extraordinary energy density. Moreover, fusion reactors produce no greenhouse gases (GHG) during operation, significantly reducing the environmental footprint compared to fossil fuels. Fusion generates minimal long-lived radioactive waste, addressing one of the major drawbacks of current nuclear fission technologies. Despite its potential, achieving fusion remains an immense scientific and engineering challenge. It requires creating and sustaining extreme conditions, including temperatures exceeding 150 million degrees Celsius, effective plasma confinement, and achieving net energy gain. However, recent advancements in key areas have brought us closer to achieving the milestone of a self-sustaining fusion reaction, or ‘ignition’:

Full opinion : The Power of the Stars: Harnessing Nuclear Fusion for Energy Needs.

For more see the OODA Company Profile on Commonwealth Fusion Systems.