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Xcimer Fires Up World's Largest Private Fusion Laser
3 Jun
Summary
- Xcimer Energy activated its Phoenix laser, the largest private fusion laser globally.
- The system aims to advance fusion power using a NIF-inspired approach.
- A prototype is targeted for 2028, with commercial plants planned mid-2030s.
Xcimer Energy has activated its Phoenix laser system, which the company states is the largest privately owned example globally. This development marks a significant step in the pursuit of fusion power.
The Phoenix laser's design is influenced by the National Ignition Facility (NIF), which previously demonstrated a controlled fusion reaction yielding more energy than input. Xcimer seeks to refine this concept with more potent, simpler lasers for profitability.
This advanced laser system utilizes excimer amplification and operates with krypton fluoride. At its full capacity, it generates over 1 kilojoule of energy. Xcimer plans to complete a prototype by 2028, with the goal of building its first commercial-scale power plant by the mid-2030s.
