The role of the spherical tokamak in clarifying tokamak physics

The spherical tokamak (ST) provides a unique environment in which to perfor m complementary and exacting tests of the tokamak physics required for a bu rning plasma experiment of any aspect ratio, while also having the potentia l for long-term fusion applications in its own right. New experiments are c oming on-line in the UR (MAST), USA (NSTX, Pegasus), Russia (Globus-M), Bra zil (ETE) and elsewhere, and the status of these devices will be reported, along with newly-analysed data from START. Those physics issues where the S T provides an opportunity to remove degeneracy in the databases or clarify one's understanding will be emphasized.