Technology
We pursue Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) fusion to enable high power in a small package, with credible physics and practical engineering.
Why Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC)?
We focus on Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) fusion because it offers a credible path to high power in a compact, linear form. An FRC is a self-organized plasma structure confined in a simple cylindrical chamber, where plasma currents create a reversed magnetic field that helps confine it.
The linear geometry is an engineering advantage. It supports modular reactor architectures by aligning magnets, injectors, and energy-capture systems along a straight axis, while simplifying access for shielding and maintenance.
FRCs have been studied for decades in labs and by private companies. We’re not starting from scratch; we’re building on a foundation of encouraging results and aligning with an approach that can realistically yield smaller, modular fusion reactors.
How Our Reactor Works
Conceptual FRC reactor layout
A high-level schematic of a linear FRC-style device: confinement coils around a vacuum chamber, end systems for formation/heating, and diagnostics + control around the core.
He3Lumina’s reactor is designed as a compact, pulsed FRC system. We create and shape an FRC plasma core inside the reaction chamber in repeatable cycles. Pulsed operation supports repeatability and simplifies certain control and power-handling aspects. Over time, as pulse performance improves, the system can approach quasi-continuous output.
We use electromagnets arranged around a cylindrical chamber to confine and shape the plasma, combined with heating/sustainment methods and control systems to keep the plasma stable and progressing toward fusion-relevant conditions.
- Many identical units instead of a single massive device.
- Factory fabrication, easier transport, and iteration across generations.
- Serviceability and reliability: swap or service units without system-wide downtime.
Key Challenges and Our Approach
Fusion is hard, and we confront that reality head-on. Here are the primary technical challenges for our FRC reactor, and how we’re tackling each:
Plasma Stability & Lifetime
FRC plasmas have historically been short-lived and prone to instabilities. Our approach: extend stability and lifetime through disciplined experimentation, careful magnetic design, and increasingly capable control strategies.
Formation & Sustainment
Creating the FRC configuration and keeping it hot is a central challenge. Our approach: iterate through prototype testing to refine formation, heating, and sustainment into a reliable, repeatable operating cycle.
Materials & Heat Management
Even a compact fusion reactor must handle intense heat and challenging environments. Our approach: choose and test materials early, design practical shielding and thermal handling, and build the machine as a whole power system from day one.
Precision Control
Running a fusion plasma requires active feedback and tight control. Our approach: embed high-speed digital control with strong diagnostics, using real-time feedback to keep operation stable and repeatable.
By acknowledging these challenges and addressing them systematically, we derisk fusion step by step. Every obstacle is a checklist item in our R&D plan, not a showstopper.
Methodical Innovation: How We Build Fusion
Big breakthroughs come from smart execution on countless small steps. He3Lumina’s technology development is rooted in a disciplined, iterative approach:
Simulation-Driven Design
Before we build hardware, we build virtual reactors on the computer. Modeling guides design choices and focuses experiments.
Leverage External Expertise
We invite expert review, critique, and lessons learned from the broader fusion and engineering ecosystem.
Incremental Prototyping
We build stepwise prototypes, each designed to answer specific questions and derisk the next stage.
Risk-Burndown Philosophy
We identify the hardest problems early and attack them early, measuring progress by how steadily risk comes down over time.
By marrying a bold concept with humble, methodical execution, we believe we can turn the promise of fusion into reality—fusion technology that’s engineering-ready.