SPHERICAL TORUS PATHWAY TO FUSION POWER

Spherical Torus (ST) as an example of confinement concept innovation t o enable a potentially attractive pathway to fusion power is discussed . Given the anticipated high performance in small size, the ST plasma could be used to stimulate innovation also in engineering, technology, and material combinations to provide a smarter, cheaper, faster pathw ay. This pathway could complement the mainline program based on the to kamak in making the desired progress in fusion energy sciences. The ST pathway could include a small VNS (Volume Neutron Source) with low fu sion amplification (Q similar to 1-2) for Fusion Energy Development (e nergy technology) and a small Pilot Plant with high Q (similar to 15-3 0) to practice Fusion Power Demonstration. Success in these steps also enhances the possibility for competitive non-electric applications of interest to society in time scales shorter than electric power genera tion. The scientific basis for these possibilities will be tested in t he U.S. by the Proof of Principle experiment NSTX (National Spherical Torus Experiment) presently being built, and could be completed by a P roof of Performance and Optimization experiment such as a small DTST ( Deuterium-Tritium Spherical Torus). Utilization of facilities and equi pment already available in the U.S. would minimize the time and cost f or these experiments and accelerate the approach to the stage of Fusio n Energy Development.