India's Fusion Breakthrough: Achieving Plasma Temperatures 20 Times Hotter Than the Sun

India has made a significant advancement in nuclear fusion research with its Steady State Superconducting Tokamak-1 (SST-1). This reactor has successfully generated plasma at temperatures around 200 million degrees Celsius, approximately 20 times hotter than the Sun's core. This achievement positions India among the leading nations in fusion technology.

Understanding the SST-1 Tokamak

Operational since 2013, the SST-1 is a large aspect ratio tokamak designed to study plasma processes under steady-state conditions. Key features include:

• Superconducting Magnets: Utilizes superconducting magnets to confine plasma, enabling sustained high-temperature operations.
• Double Null Diverted Plasmas: Configured to run double null diverted plasmas with significant elongation and triangularity, enhancing plasma stability and performance.
• Advanced Confinement Modes: Aims to operate with non-inductive current-drive and advanced confinement modes, crucial for continuous fusion reactions.

Comparative Insights: India and China's Fusion Endeavors

While India's SST-1 has achieved remarkable plasma temperatures, China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) has set records in sustaining plasma duration. In January 2025, EAST maintained a steady-state high-confinement plasma operation for 1,066 seconds, marking a significant milestone in fusion research.

The Path Forward: India's SST-2 Development

Building on the success of SST-1, India is planning the development of the Steady State Superconducting Tokamak-2 (SST-2). This next-generation reactor aims to handle over 1,000 plasma pulses and currents exceeding 1 million amperes. Construction is expected to commence in 2027, underscoring India's commitment to advancing fusion technology.

Implications for Global Fusion Research

India's achievements in generating extremely high plasma temperatures complement global efforts in nuclear fusion research. While sustaining these temperatures for extended periods remains a challenge, the progress made by both India and China contributes valuable insights toward realizing fusion as a practical and sustainable energy source.

Conclusion

India's SST-1 tokamak's success in achieving plasma temperatures far exceeding those of the Sun's core highlights the nation's growing prominence in nuclear fusion research. As developments continue with projects like SST-2, India is poised to play a pivotal role in the pursuit of clean and virtually limitless energy through fusion technology.