China is building a giant laser to generate the energy of the stars, satellite images appear to show

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🗞️ Driving the news: Satellite images reveal China is constructing a massive nuclear fusion research facility near Mianyang, Sichuan
• Analysts suggest it could be used for clean energy research or nuclear weapons development
• The facility is expected to be 50% larger than the US National Ignition Facility (NIF)

🔭 The context: China’s project focuses on “laser fusion,” using high-powered lasers to create extreme pressures similar to those in stars or nuclear explosions
• The US has been a leader in nuclear fusion, with NIF achieving a breakthrough in 2022 by generating more energy from fusion than was absorbed by the fuel
• Experts believe China's rapid progress signals serious investment in both fusion energy and weapons research

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: If successful, nuclear fusion could provide abundant clean energy without the long-lived radioactive waste of nuclear fission
• China’s acceleration in fusion research might reshape global energy and security dynamics
• However, concerns remain that such facilities could enhance nuclear weapon capabilities

⏭️ What's next: China’s facility could surpass the US in fusion research, intensifying the race for clean energy dominance
• Some experts warn it might also aid in nuclear weapons development, potentially altering global security balances
• Calls for increased investment in fusion are growing in the US and allied nations

💬 One quote: “It signals that they are serious about fusion. They are being decisive, moving quickly and getting things done.” – Melanie Windridge, CEO of Fusion Energy Insights

📈 One stat: China’s Mianyang research center is estimated to be 50% larger than the US National Ignition Facility, potentially making it the world’s biggest fusion lab

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