China’s ‘Artificial Sun,’ the EAST reactor, recently set a record by sustaining plasma for 1,000 seconds, capturing global attention. However, India has been quietly making groundbreaking advancements in nuclear fusion research, proving itself a strong contender in the race for clean energy.
In Short:
- China’s Record: In 2024, China’s EAST reactor set a record by sustaining plasma for 1,000 seconds.
- India’s Fusion Journey: India began fusion research in the 1980s, with early efforts like the SINP Tokamak (1987).
- Key Indian Reactors: India’s first indigenous tokamak, ADITYA, was launched in 1989 and upgraded to ADITYA-U. The SST-1 reactor, operational since 2013, reaches temperatures 20 times hotter than the Sun’s core.
- India’s Role in ITER: India contributes 10% to the $25 billion ITER project, producing vital components like the massive cryostat.
- Future Steps: The SST-2 reactor, planned for 2027, will feature advanced plasma systems and shielding.
- India vs. China: While China leads with plasma records, India’s steady progress in ITER and future reactors positions it as a key player in global nuclear fusion.
China’s Fusion Feat
China’s Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), also called the Artificial Sun, shattered its previous record of 403 seconds in 2024, sustaining plasma for over 1,000 seconds. While this milestone showcased China’s leadership in fusion energy, India has been progressing steadily, making remarkable contributions to the global nuclear fusion landscape.
India’s Artificial Sun Journey in Fusion Research
India’s fusion research journey began in the 1980s with the SINP Tokamak, which became operational in 1987. This early plasma confinement experiment laid the foundation for India’s future in nuclear fusion.
ADITYA Tokamak: India’s First Milestone
In 1989, India launched ADITYA, its first indigenously designed tokamak. Over the years, it evolved into ADITYA-U, contributing significantly to India’s knowledge in fusion physics and engineering.
SST-1: India’s Cutting-Edge Fusion Reactor
The Steady-State Superconducting Tokamak (SST-1), operational since 2013, represents India’s leap into advanced fusion technology. With temperatures reaching 20 times hotter than the Sun’s core, India joined an elite group of six nations with superconducting tokamaks, reinforcing its standing in nuclear fusion research.
India’s Role in ITER: The Global Fusion Project
India’s fusion breakthroughs led to its participation in ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor), the world’s largest fusion energy project. Since 2005, India has been a key partner, contributing 10% to the $25 billion initiative. India is also responsible for fabricating critical components like the 3,850-tonne cryostat, a crucial element for the ITER reactor. The project aims to generate 500 MW of power, bringing the world closer to a future powered by nuclear fusion.
The Future: SST-2 & India’s Next-Gen Reactor
Looking ahead, India is gearing up for SST-2, a next-generation fusion reactor featuring advanced plasma systems. Expected to begin construction in 2027, SST-2 will introduce cutting-edge innovations, including biological shielding and an improved diverter, further strengthening India’s position in global fusion research.
India vs. China: The Global Fusion Rivalry
While China has made headlines with record-breaking plasma retention times, India’s steady progress with SST-1, ITER, and SST-2 highlights its long-term commitment to fusion energy. As both nations push the boundaries of nuclear fusion, the dream of limitless clean energy is becoming a reality.
Conclusion
India may not be making as much noise as China in the Artificial Sun race, but its consistent advancements in nuclear fusion research position it as a key global player. With SST-2 on the horizon and its strong contributions to ITER, India is paving the way toward a future powered by sustainable, unlimited energy..