造太阳的人 ——记核工业西物院新一代人造太阳团队

Core Insights - The article discusses the advancements in nuclear fusion research at the Southwest Institute of Physics, focusing on the development of the "artificial sun" project, which aims to replicate the sun's energy production process on Earth [1][3][4]. Group 1: Technological Breakthroughs - The new generation of the artificial sun, "China Circulation No. 3," achieved significant milestones, including reaching an atomic nucleus temperature of 117 million degrees Celsius and an electron temperature of 160 million degrees Celsius [4]. - The team has developed several innovative technologies, such as high-power microwave cyclotron tubes and a high-power neutral beam injection heating system, which are now operational [4][6]. - The team has also introduced a new method to enhance core energy confinement, showcasing the progress in domestic technology development [4]. Group 2: Team Dynamics and Collaboration - The research team, with an average age of 35, emphasizes collaboration and knowledge sharing, which has been crucial in overcoming challenges and achieving breakthroughs [2][10]. - The team members engage in regular discussions and brainstorming sessions, leading to the rapid iteration of experimental plans, resulting in over a thousand iterations in just 120 days [9]. - The collaborative spirit is highlighted by the notion that every team member plays a vital role, contributing to the overall success of the project [10][11]. Group 3: Historical Context and Development - The journey of the artificial sun project began in 2004, with initial reliance on foreign technology, but has since transitioned to a focus on domestic innovation and self-reliance [4][5]. - The development of the high-power microwave cyclotron tube involved extensive research and numerous trials over four years, reflecting the team's perseverance and commitment to innovation [5][6]. - The legacy of past researchers, such as the late expert Cao Jianyong, continues to influence current developments, demonstrating the importance of foundational work in advancing the project [11].