Energy Secretary Bill Richardson cut a ribbon February 26, marking the beginning of experimental operations of the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). Richardson was joined in the ceremony by U.S. Congressmen Rodney P. Freylinghuysen and Rush D. Holt and by the mayors of Plainsboro and Princeton, New Jersey. NSTX successfully produced its first plasma in the new device on February 12.

Richardson said, "I want to applaud everyone at this Laboratory for the path-breaking success of the National Spherical Torus Experiment, which through hard work has been brought in ahead of schedule and on budget. It is outstanding research such as this that leads to important breakthroughs." Richardson said the Department of Energy especially values its relationships with "America's blue chip universities, like Princeton and MIT." Freylinghuysen said, "Princeton has a proven track record of scientific accomplishments and technological advances that make it unlike any other research facility of its kind. Fusion energy has the potential to be an unlimited and ultra-clean source of energy for the world. I remain committed through my work on the Appropriations Committee to see to it that Congress continues to support this important work. Whether it be for fusion or a cure for cancer, our nation must continue its investment in important research and development in the scientific community if we are truly to be prepared for the 21st Century." Holt said, "I am proud of the research and teaching taking place at the lab. I applaud the staff's efforts to create a sustainable fusion energy source." Holt noted that an energy source, such as fusion, "would prove less costly -- both in terms of dollars spent and environmental damage" in the long run.

NSTX is a low aspect ratio (1.25) tokamak designed to test the predicted advantages of the spherical torus concept, including the potential to confine plasma at higher plasma pressure for a given magnetic field, and the potential for smaller, less costly facilities for fusion power development. The project is a joint project of PPPL, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Columbia University and the University of Washington at Seattle. Researchers from 14 institutions compose the national NSTX research team.

NSTX Program Director Martin Peng noted that NSTX achieved first plasma ten weeks ahead of schedule. He said, "This accomplishment attests to the super dedication and expertise of the entire NSTX Team and the great support of the host and participating institutions." NSTX Project Director Masa Ono said, "I'm very excited about actually getting first plasma. Everything came together in the critical moment." PPPL Director Rob Goldston said, "We are started off on a new adventure. I believe that it will be an exciting one."

For further information, contact Martin Peng (mpeng@pppl.gov).