NSTX (National Spherical Torus Experiment)

The National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) is a scientific research device designed to study nuclear fusion, the process that powers the sun. It uses powerful magnetic fields to contain and control super-hot plasma—a state of matter where electrons are separated from nuclei—at temperatures hot enough for fusion reactions to occur. Unlike traditional tokamaks, NSTX has a compact, spherical shape that allows for better plasma confinement and stability. The goal is to learn how to sustain fusion reactions efficiently, providing insights that could lead to clean, abundant energy in the future.