Written By Hampton University
Hampton University has been awarded a $1.76M grant from the Simons Foundation to help develop a new Stellarator Experiment Group to advance research in Fusion Plasma Science.
The grant is focused on undergraduate and graduate education to engage underrepresented students, scientists, and engineers in research of worldwide importance, in collaboration with internationally known researchers and ultimately introducing a new and diverse set of expertise into the fusion workforce.
The funding will support the design and construction of a stellarator experiment, STAR_Lite, in partnership with the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). The Stellarator for Research and Training (STAR_Lite) program will be organized around long-term national and international collaborations with world-leading plasma scientists to enhance Hamptonâs contributions to the advancement of fusion plasma science.
The stellarator is one of the technologies scientists believe could lead to real-world fusion power. A stellarator is a machine that uses magnetic fields to confine plasma in the shape of a donut, called a torus. These magnetic fields allow scientists to control the plasma particles and create the right conditions for fusion reactions.
âFusion power will provide the world with safe, clean, and renewable power,â said Dr. Calvin Lowe, professor, department of physics. âThe pursuit of controlled thermonuclear fusion as a near endless source of pollution-free electricity is approaching fruition. After 60+ years, a stellarator based fusion power plant is within reach.â
Although STAR_Lite is in its early conceptual design phase, it is envisaged that the primary coils will have an open geometry, likely helical, to study the issues and benefits of an open-access design for experimental flexibility and for power-plant maintenance. The outcomes of this three-year program include the design and construction of a complete stellarator device, having mapped the magnetic flux surfaces and preparing for a first plasma operational phase.
ELEVATING HAMPTON EXCELLENCE
Hampton has enjoyed a reputation as an institution that supports the STEM disciplines and focuses on interdisciplinary exploration and utilization of cutting-edge technologies. In its bold âElevating Hampton Excellenceâ 10-year strategic plan, the institution is working to double the number of Hampton graduates who earn doctorates in STEM fields.
Hampton University, in southeastern Virginia, ranks in the top 8% of universities worldwide and is a respected leader in academic and scientific excellence, creativity, and integrity in preparing students to diversify the STEM workforce. Recognized as the best private college in Virginia, the institution is leading efforts to reimagine the Hampton academic experience to develop innovative 21st century leaders of character for our community, our nation, and our world.
âThe Simons Foundation is proud to partner with Hampton University in this promising field of fusion plasma science,â said David Spergel, president of the Simons Foundation. âThe Star_Lite project will not only be transformational for the scientists, but also Hampton students will have the opportunity to make contributions to the advancement of fusion plasma science.â
ABOUT SIMONS FOUNDATION
The Simons Foundationâs mission is to advance the frontiers of research in mathematics and the basic sciences. Since its founding in 1994 by Jim and Marilyn Simons, the foundation has been a champion of basic science through grant funding, support for research and public engagement. The Simons Foundation believes in asking big questions and provides sustained support to researchers working to unravel the mysteries of the universe.