cross-posted from: https://slrpnk.net/post/31427438
Beijing is pouring vast resources into fusion research, while the U.S. wants private industry to lead the way. The winner could reshape civilization.
cross-posted from: https://slrpnk.net/post/31427438
Beijing is pouring vast resources into fusion research, while the U.S. wants private industry to lead the way. The winner could reshape civilization.
Fusion feels like one of those things that’s been “a couple of decades away” since like the 1960s.
Even if it works, would it ever be cheaper or massively more useful than nationwide wind turbine networks, tidal power and fields full of solar panels?
Could be important if we want to leave the solar system at some point, and it would be nice to make it actually work, but I’m not seeing the big advantage over everything else.
Wind and solar is not a constant controllable source. Theoretically, fusion would allow for a very consistent and large base load. Tidal power so far has had lots of issues afaik. Turns out it’s really hard to make reliable generators that are in constant contact with salt water. Don’t get me wrong, all of those other sources are going to be extremely important, but fusion will absolutely be worthwhile if we can actually get it running.