Science, Technology and Society
Plasma experiments bring astrophysics down to Earth
Type:
Research Profile
New laboratory technique allows researchers to replicate on a tiny scale the swirling clouds of ionized gases that power the sun, to further our understanding of fusion energy, solar flares and other cosmic phenomena.
Slug:
Experiments bring astrophysics down to Earth
Short Dek:
Plasma research furthers our understanding of fusion energy, solar flares
Intense heat, like that found in the sun, can strip gas atoms of their electrons, creating a swirling mass of positively and negatively charged ions known as a plasma.
For several decades, laboratory researchers sought to replicate plasma conditions similar to those found in the sun in order to help them understand the basic physics of ionized matter and, ultimately, harness and control fusion energy on Earth or use it as a means of space propulsion.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Last modified Thu, 3 Dec, 2015 at 9:23
