Archive — US — techcrunch
The world’s largest privately owned laser just turned on
Xcimer Energy has activated the world's largest privately-owned laser system, Phoenix. Inspired by the NIF's fusion success, it aims to enhance fusion power efficiency and profitability. With plans to develop the technology further, Xcimer targets a prototype by 2028 and a commercial power plant by the mid-2030s.
Key points
- Xcimer Energy activates the Phoenix laser, the largest privately owned laser.
- The laser's concept is modeled after the National Ignition Facility (NIF), which achieved a successful fusion reaction in December 2022.
- The NIF employed 192 laser beams to strike a gold target, converting energy to X-rays to compress fuel into fusion.
- Xcimer's lasers are designed for less complexity and more power to enhance profitability.
- Phoenix generates over 1 kilojoule of energy, but will require more for commercial viability (12 megajoules).
- The company plans to create a prototype by 2028 and a commercial plant by the mid-2030s.
Why it matters
- NIF's breakthrough in fusion energy in 2022 has prompted increased global interest in fusion power.
- The development of private fusion technologies aligns with the 2025 IT trends focusing on sustainable energy and advanced technologies.
- Investments in fusion power by startups signify a shift towards private sector involvement in energy solutions.
Xcimer Energy's activation of the Phoenix laser marks a significant step in private fusion technology, aiming for a sustainable energy future through innovative methods, with commercial plans set for the mid-2030s.