The National Academy has recently called for the US to adopt a strategy to produce fusion electricity from a compact pilot plant by mid-century. This approach requires innovations in technology (e.g. magnet systems and power handling systems) and innovations in physics. I will introduce the key issues that challenge the current program and recent theoretical and experimental progress. I will also discuss research at PPPL to develop optimal three dimensional magnetic configurations and low cost engineering solutions for their realization.

Twitter:#PrincetonPhyColloq

Recording of Professor Cowley's Talk: http://www.kaltura.com/tiny/mntk2