Need help figuring out a possible fusion engine

Thread starter DHF
Start date Jul 8, 2015
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Alpha centauri Engine Fusion Space travel

In summary, the space based sci fi novella protagonist is looking for a feasible model for a fusion engine that could take a 40 year journey to Alpha Centauri. He considers a proton to proton fusion reaction, but it is difficult and pointless. He also considers deuterium-tritium fusion, deuterium-deuterium fusion, and a breeding system.

Jul 28, 2015

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Nuclear warheads are safe to store - just remove a part of the trigger or some other vital part. They only work when fully assembled.

<h2>1. How does a fusion engine work?</h2><p>A fusion engine works by combining two or more atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This process is similar to what powers the sun and other stars.</p><h2>2. What are the potential benefits of a fusion engine?</h2><p>A fusion engine has the potential to provide a nearly limitless source of clean energy, as it produces no greenhouse gases or radioactive waste. It could also potentially reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and help combat climate change.</p><h2>3. What are the challenges in developing a fusion engine?</h2><p>One of the main challenges in developing a fusion engine is containing and controlling the extremely high temperatures and pressures required for fusion to occur. Another challenge is finding materials that can withstand these extreme conditions and developing a sustainable fusion reaction.</p><h2>4. What is the current progress in fusion engine research?</h2><p>There are several research projects and experiments currently underway to develop a fusion engine, including the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France and the Joint European Torus (JET) in the UK. While progress has been made, a practical and commercially viable fusion engine is still in the early stages of development.</p><h2>5. When can we expect a fusion engine to be available for use?</h2><p>It is difficult to predict an exact timeline for when a fusion engine will be available for use, as it depends on the progress of research and development. Some experts estimate that a practical fusion engine could be available within the next few decades, while others believe it may take longer. However, continued advancements in technology and research bring us closer to achieving this goal.</p>

1. How does a fusion engine work?

A fusion engine works by combining two or more atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This process is similar to what powers the sun and other stars.

2. What are the potential benefits of a fusion engine?

A fusion engine has the potential to provide a nearly limitless source of clean energy, as it produces no greenhouse gases or radioactive waste. It could also potentially reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and help combat climate change.

3. What are the challenges in developing a fusion engine?

One of the main challenges in developing a fusion engine is containing and controlling the extremely high temperatures and pressures required for fusion to occur. Another challenge is finding materials that can withstand these extreme conditions and developing a sustainable fusion reaction.

4. What is the current progress in fusion engine research?

There are several research projects and experiments currently underway to develop a fusion engine, including the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France and the Joint European Torus (JET) in the UK. While progress has been made, a practical and commercially viable fusion engine is still in the early stages of development.

5. When can we expect a fusion engine to be available for use?

It is difficult to predict an exact timeline for when a fusion engine will be available for use, as it depends on the progress of research and development. Some experts estimate that a practical fusion engine could be available within the next few decades, while others believe it may take longer. However, continued advancements in technology and research bring us closer to achieving this goal.