As organizations worldwide strive to unlock the potential of nuclear fusion, advancements in computer technology are proving to be a crucial accelerator in this race.
Computing tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), and digital twins are revolutionizing how researchers and engineers approach the challenges inherent in nuclear fusion projects.
These tools are not just theoretical concepts but are actively being explored by both private and public research programs, paving the way for new insights that drive progress forward.
At ITER’s Private Sector Fusion Workshop, held in 2025, experts highlighted how cutting-edge computing technologies could revolutionize fusion research and development across various domains.
Microsoft’s Research Incubations Director, Kenji Takeda, emphasized the transformative impact of AI, showcasing how generative AI models like MatterGen can expedite the discovery of new materials, thus significantly advancing the field.
Furthermore, AI-native platforms such as Arena’s Atlas are proving instrumental in streamlining engineering processes and accelerating hardware innovation in fusion projects.
These developments underscore a broader trend where industry players are leveraging AI to enhance not only theoretical research but also real-world engineering workflows.
In the public sector, at ITER—the world’s largest fusion project—AI technologies are being integrated across various operations, from administrative tasks to scientific endeavors.
By digitizing its extensive knowledge base and deploying AI tools like Copilot and GitHub Copilot, ITER has streamlined software development and operational processes, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
Moreover, AI has been instrumental in inspecting welds on ITER’s tokamak vessel, ensuring structural integrity, and optimizing operational safety.
These AI-powered strategies are not confined to ITER alone but are also being adopted by other fusion research centers like the CEA WEST facility, where AI systems are automating tasks such as detecting hot spots in infrared images to improve operational safety and stability.
AI’s role in fusion research is set to expand further, with plans to utilize AI for data analysis and interpretation once experimental data from ITER plasmas becomes available.
By developing AI-based models for physics processes, ITER aims to create a comprehensive digital twin that simulates ITER’s operation with high fidelity, paving the way for enhanced plasma performance and system optimization.
These advancements signify a paradigm shift in fusion research, with computing tools like AI, generative AI, and immersive modeling driving agility, collaboration, and precision in the quest for viable fusion energy solutions.
While fusion energy may still be a distant goal, the integration of AI and digital technologies is propelling the field towards a future where fusion power may become a reality sooner than expected.
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