Achieving controlled fusion gain in the laboratory: Experimental design and the role of AI

The inertial fusion community has been pursuing ignition for several decades, ever since the concept of inertial confinement fusion (ICF) was first introduced by Nuckolls, et his collegues in 1972. A signficant milestone was reached on August 8 2021, when experiments at the United States’ premier facility,the National Ignition Facility (NIF), fulfilled the Lawson criterion. This criterions represents the condition where energy gains from fusion begin the surpass energy losses. Subsequently, on December 5th 2022, another breakthrough occurred when the fusion energy generated exceeded the laser energy directed at the target, marking the first time that fusion gain surpasses unity in a laboratory setting. In our presentation, we will discuss the modifications implemented to attain this result and the crticial role by data-driven models and AI. These innovations have greatly contributed to the design and production of targets, the management of the NIF laser system, the interpretation of experimental data, and the scaling of current results towards the development of an inertial fusion power plant. Speakers: Annie Kritcher Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Jim Gaffney Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Moderator(s): Diakhère Gueye International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Join us for two days of never before presented, state of the art AI solutions and cutting edge knowledge, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Register and learn more here: Join the Neural Network! 👉 The AI for Good networking community platform powered by AI. Designed to help users build connections with innovators and experts, link innovative ideas with social impact opportunities, and bring the community together to advance the SDGs using AI. 🔴 Watch the latest #AIforGood videos! 📩 Stay updated and join our weekly AI for Good newsletter: 🗞Check out the latest AI for Good news: 📱Explore the AI for Good blog: 🌎 Connect on our social media: Website: Twitter: LinkedIn Page: LinkedIn Group: Instagram: Facebook: What is AI for Good? We have less than 10 years to solve the UN SDGs and AI holds great promise to advance many of the sustainable development goals and targets. More than a Summit, more than a movement, AI for Good is presented as a year round digital platform where AI innovators and problem owners learn, build and connect to help identify practical AI solutions to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. AI for Good is organized by ITU in partnership with 40 UN Sister Agencies and co-convened with Switzerland. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the panelists and do not reflect the official policy of the ITU.