April 22, 2024

Physics majors visit fusion experiment at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab

Students learned about the National Spherical Torus Experiment from state senator Andrew Zwicker.

Posted in: Physics, Science and Technology, Students

Dr. Andrew Zwicker (right) and Montclair State physics majors in the experiment hall for the NSTX-U experiment.

On April 12th, 2024 a group of 19 Montclair State physics majors (and minors) visited the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab (PPPL). Students received a tour of the facility led by Dr. Andrew Zwicker, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Public Engagement (as well as NJ state Senator from the 16th Legislative District). They were joined by CSAM Dean Lora Billings, and physics professors Kent Leung and Marc Favata.

Visiting the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab with CSAM Dean Lora Billings (left) and physics majors Ava Mclaren, Renzo Herrera, Sarah Estupinan Jimenez, RJ Chandler, and Michael Camilo.

The outing began with a discussion on fusion energy, followed by a tour of the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade (NSTX-U). NSTX-U will attempt to contain a plasma of hydrogen using strong magnetic fields, eventually heating the plasma to temperatures sufficient to begin fusion reactions. This is the latest in a sequence of experiments at the PPPL to explore the potential of magnetically confined plasmas as a source of fusion energy. (See summary from PhD Comics on YouTube.)

Dr. Andrew Zwicker explaining the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade (NSTX-U) at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab.

A special thanks to Dr. Zwicker and Britt Albucker for hosting us at PPPL.