Know how India built its sun as China's 'artificial sun' set records

China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), also known as the "artificial sun," has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in nuclear fusion research. On January 20, 2025, EAST sustained plasma for an impressive 1,066 seconds, shattering the previous record of 403 seconds set in 2023. 

As scientists inch closer to harnessing the power of nuclear fusion, India is making remarkable strides in this field. Nuclear fusion, the process that powers the sun, has the potential to provide a nearly limitless and clean energy source.

India's journey in fusion research began with the Tokamak at the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics (SINP), operational since 1987. This pioneering effort provided India with its first experience in plasma confinement, a crucial step towards mastering nuclear fusion.

Since then, India has achieved several milestones, including the development of its first tokamak, 'Aditya', in 1989. The country has also operated an advanced Steady State Superconducting Tokamak (SST), which overcomes the limitations of conventional tokamaks in heating plasma. This cutting-edge technology creates temperatures 20 times hotter than the Sun's core, placing India among the six nations with superconducting Tokamaks.

India's achievements in fusion research secured its entry into the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in 2005. As part of this $25 billion collaboration, India contributes 10% alongside 34 other nations.

Looking ahead, India is planning to develop SST-2, a next-generation fusion reactor featuring advanced plasma systems. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, signalling India's ambition to lead in sustainable energy. With SST-2, India will incorporate cutting-edge features like biological shielding and an improved diverter, further solidifying its position in global fusion research.

Meanwhile, India is hot on its heels, making steady progress with its SST-1 and ITER projects, as China continues to advance its fusion research. India's SST-1 Tokamak has achieved a remarkable milestone, generating plasma that is scorching 20 times hotter than the Sun's core. This breakthrough not only showcases India's significant leap in fusion technology but also puts it in the same league as China's esteemed EAST reactor.