| In contrast to the NIF-developed process depicted here, Marvel's approach is set to exploit much shorter-pulsed lasers, utilizing femtosecond (rather than NIFs nanosecond) sources. The Munich startup will be able to take advantage of decades of laser technology development since the NIF hardware was specified, and plans to deploy a silicon-based target that can be made in volume using conventional semiconductor production techniques. If all goes to plan, prototype fusion demonstrators could be available in the early 2030s. Image: NIF/LLNL. |
