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Lawrence Livermore claims a milestone in laser fusion (physicstoday.scitation.org)

564 points by furcyd · 1863 days ago · 292 comments on HN

Article summary

Lawrence Livermore has achieved a milestone in laser fusion, with experiments detecting and quantifying picosecond-level variances in neutrons. The lab's capabilities allow for precise measurements of tiny effects. The achievement is a significant step forward in fusion physics and engineering. Further details about the experiment and its implications are not available due to the article text not being fetched.

Main themes

  • laser fusion
  • scientific progress
  • sensor technologies
  • fusion energy
  • Lawrence Livermore lab
  • technological innovation
  • energy production

What commenters say

  • The ability to detect and quantify picosecond-level variances in neutrons is a remarkable achievement that showcases human ingenuity and scientific progress.
  • The term 'Livermorons' is a self-deprecating joke used by people who work at or live near the Lawrence Livermore lab, and is not meant to be taken literally.
  • The detection of neutrons is a more impressive feat than the measurement of picosecond-level variances, given the challenges of detecting electrically neutral particles.
  • The technological progress made in pursuit of fusion energy can have spin-off benefits and applications in other fields, even if the ultimate goal of achieving practical fusion energy is not reached.
  • The energy released by fusion from a single, microscopic target is roughly equivalent to the caloric value of a McDonald's cheeseburger, which can be used as a way to make the concept more relatable.
  • The concept of 'Livermorons' is not unique to Lawrence Livermore, as similar terms are used in other locations, such as 'Leemorons' for people who stay at NAS Lemoore.
  • The pursuit of fusion energy is a complex and challenging problem that requires significant advances in sensor technologies and other areas.
  • The ability to measure tiny effects, such as those detected in gravity wave detectors, is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of scientific inquiry.