Reply To: Military Effects

[AaronB]

Well, the history of fusion development has been pretty rocky, so I understand the author’s skepticism. There have been a lot of hyped claims and false starts. The truth is, fusion is hard. Aneutronic fusion, the kind we’re working on, is even harder. But hard doesn’t mean impossible. Other things have been hard too, like starting a fire, crossing the Atlantic, heavier-than-air flight, putting a man on the moon, decoding DNA, and building a world wide web of computers so people can spout off their opinions about things. Before the Wright brothers made their successful attempt, many other “dreamers, hucksters, and loons” built many variations of gliders with varying degrees of success. The fusion field is in the same situation now, in glider mode with varying degrees of success but without sustained, positive-net-energy output. We know fusion is possible, but we don’t know the best (or any) way to produce useful power with it, yet. To point out the flaws and fakes is one thing, but to dismiss the whole idea is very short sighted.

Heavier-than-air flight is hard but possible. Birds have been doing it for millions of years. Fusion is hard but possible. The sun has been doing it for billions of years. Once we figure out and apply the scientific principles behind something, it can go from theoretically possible to routine occurrence in a relatively short period of time. I applaud the dedicated scientists and researchers who have applied themselves to all of the various challenges and brought us to where we are today. Some people wither in the face of adversity while others endure to find better ways. Who do you think wins the prize?

By the way, the “touted by startup” link referred to Tri Alpha Energy, and they do have a lot of cash to play with. I wish we could say the same for ourselves. 🙂