Fusion startup Xcimer Energy flipped the switch on its Phoenix laser system on Wednesday, claiming it is the largest privately owned laser in the world. The system is modeled after the National Ignition Facility (NIF), which achieved a net energy gain fusion reaction in December 2022. Xcimer's approach uses two powerful lasers firing microsecond-long pulses, with light fed through a compression system, aiming to make NIF's concept commercially viable.
xcimer energy fired up its phoenix laser system this week, saying it's the biggest privately owned laser ever built. it's modeled after the national ignition facility that proved fusion could produce more energy than it takes in 2022. xcimer's bet is that bigger, simpler lasers can turn that science into something that actually makes money.
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Xcimer's Phoenix laser represents a significant step toward commercial fusion energy, a field that has attracted billions in private investment. If successful, the company's approach could accelerate the timeline for fusion power plants, offering a nearly limitless clean energy source. The milestone also highlights the growing role of private startups in advancing technologies once dominated by government labs.
private fusion is heating up, and xcimer just lit the biggest match. if their laser design works, it could speed up the race to commercial fusion power — a nearly limitless clean energy source. it's another sign that the future of energy might be built by startups, not just governments.
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