A Historical Perspective of Controlled Thermonuclear Research at Los Alamos: 1946–1990
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The following historical account highlights the evolution of controlled thermonuclear research (CTR) at Los Alamos (the singular entity denoted Los Alamos Laboratory/Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory/Los Alamos National Laboratory at different times in its evolution is designated “Los Alamos”) following the Manhattan Project. It focuses on magnetic fusion energy research performed by the Physics Division, Theory Division, and CTR Division from 1946 through 1990. It chronicles a compelling story, including the first laboratory demonstration worldwide of thermonuclear D-D fusion in 1960 by James Leslie Tuck and colleagues with the Scylla 1 theta pinch. Neither the rich history of Los Alamos research into inertial confinement fusion nor a summary of the historical breadth of fusion energy research worldwide is included. These subjects have been well researched and well documented in numerous publications, some of which are referenced herein.
Source: Fusion Science & Technology
Author: Kurt F. Schoenberg
Institution: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4400000561