Enhancing synergies between particle physics and nuclear fusion

Fusion, the nuclear reaction that powers the Sun and the stars holds the prospect of a safe, carbon-free and abundant energy production. Producing energy from fusion requires expertise in similar domains to those needed for high-energy physics, for instance magnets, vacuum, materials and radiation protection. In order to explore direct synergies with ongoing public and private fusion initiatives, CERN set up an internal Fusion Technology Coordination Unit in 2023.

At the end of the year, CERN signed an agreement with EUROfusion to explore synergies between the development of the muon collider and that of future fusion power plants, mainly DEMO (Demonstration Power Plant), which will take the succession of ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor).