Overview of inertial fusion program

The inertial fusion program conducted by the US Department of Energy is discussed. The program contributes to the US nuclear weapons program by providing increased understanding of phenomena that occur during a nuclear explosion and has potential benefits for electric power generation. Progress on the part of the national laboratories and support contractors, particularly in target physics and driver development, is reviewed. Early stages of planning for a new, large facility, the laboratory Microfusion Facility, which could have significant military and civilian energy application benefits, are described. It is noted that facility cost, benefits, and technological risk will have to be clearly understood before a decision to proceed can be made