By using the NIF to evaluate inertial fusion energy, the United States can extend its present world leadership in inertial confinement fusion research and its supporting industrial technology base. Promoting U.S. world leadership in new energy technologies. Providing viable, clean energy sources that are alternatives to oil and other polluting fossil fuels. Reducing energy-related emissions of greenhouse gases.
Fusion is the process that occurs in the Sun and other stars.
The following illustration represents the fusion process. The fusion process requires extreme conditions of temperature and pressure . In the Sun, the intense gravitational field due to the Sun's enormous mass provides the confinement conditions necessary for hydrogen nuclei to fuse, releasing energy. These gravitational confinement methods are not possible on earth, and other confinement techniques must be developed. Inertial confinement fusion relies on the inertia of the fusion fuel to permit the momentary conditions of temperature and pressure required for fusion.