LLNL’s fusion ignition breakthrough, more than 60 years in the making, was enabled by a combination of traditional fusion target design methods, high-performance computing (HPC), and AI techniques. The success of ignition marks a significant milestone in fusion energy research, and was facilitated in part by the precision simulations and rapid experimental data analysis only possible through HPC and AI-driven tools. As described in a new video, this merger of HPC and AI is already having a transformative impact on science—particularly in fusion energy—and is enhancing national security efforts and opening doors to further scientific advancements at the Department of Energy (DOE). Transitioning from ignition to a viable fusion energy ecosystem remains a formidable challenge, necessitating continued investments and a broad commitment to HPC, fusion R&D, and AI initiatives. Despite the hurdles, harnessing the power of supercomputing and AI has the potential to lead the world towards a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future. Watch the video on YouTube.
LLNL
