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Re: [Phys-L] Skunkworks Compact Fusion Reactor (concept)



perhaps si similar to

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CAREM

Aviation Week carried a note on Skunkworks Compact Fusion Reactor on Wednesday.

"Hidden away in the secret depths of the Skunk Works, aLockheed Martin<http://awin.aviationweek.com/OrganizationProfiles.aspx?orgId=27191>research team has been working quietly on a nuclear energy concept they believe has the potential to meet, if not eventually decrease, the world's insatiable demand for power.

Dubbed the compact fusion reactor (CFR), the device is conceptually safer, cleaner and more powerful than much larger, current nuclear systems that rely on fission, the process of splitting atoms to release energy. Crucially, by being "compact," Lockheed believes its scalable concept will also be small and practical enough for applications ranging from interplanetary spacecraft and commercial ships to city power stations. It may even revive the concept of large, nuclear-powered aircraft that virtually never require refueling---ideas of which were largely abandoned more than 50 years ago because of the dangers and complexities involved with nuclear fission reactors."