May 28, 2026 - China Continues Breakthroughs on "Artificial Sun"
Chinese scientists and researchers are continuing their development of the country`s new generational artificial sun, the HL-3, located in southwest China`s Sichuan Province. The HL-3 is a tokamak, or an experimental machine that harnesses nuclear fusion to create clean energy, and breakthroughs have been made recently regarding its so-called "first wall". This describes the part of the tokamak that directly faces the extreme high temperatures and particle bombardment. China has independently launched R&D and manufacturing efforts on first wall development including welding techniques and high heat flux testing, which have all reached international standards. The next phases of development include a full upgrade to the HL-3 with an aim of achieving its first burning plasma experiment by 2027. Researchers say the plan then is to build a fusion pilot test reactor by 2035, and then a demonstration reactor around 2045, and eventually, a commercial reactor.