The National Research Nuclear University MEPhI is assembling the experimental laser-physical facility "ELF". Its task is to study matter in conditions close to the depths of stars, where the temperature reaches millions of degrees, and the pressure reaches tens of millions of atmospheres. The facility will become a key tool for preparing experiments on controlled thermonuclear fusion, which can provide humanity with an almost inexhaustible source of energy.
"ELF" generates a laser beam with a power of up to 10 kilojoules. For this, a 15-meter vacuum light guide is used, which cleans the radiation from distortions. The focused beam is directed at microscopic targets that mimic the conditions of thermonuclear reactions. Scientists note that even at the testing stage, the power of the installation is such that flashes of light are accompanied by loud pops due to the instantaneous heating of the air.
"ELF" is called the younger brother of the largest Russian laser facility in Sarov, where they plan to launch a reaction of synthesis of deuterium and tritium. Both systems complement each other: MEPhI develops diagnostic methods, and Sarov will conduct large-scale experiments. In addition, the university has developed the Mefis-1 training tokamak — a toroidal chamber with magnetic coils for studying plasma. Its modernized version allows increasing the duration of plasma discharges and the number of diagnostic measurements, which are critical for understanding the synthesis processes.
MEPhI installations serve not only science, but also personnel training. Students from the first years participate in experiments, work with plasma and analyze data.
MEPhI's "ELF" and tokamak are integrated into a single network with Rosatom's scientific centers, including the Troitsk Institute and the Novosibirsk Institute of Nuclear Physics. This allows for remote experiments and data exchange in real time. By 2026, it is planned to complete the installation of the main components of "ELF" and begin full-fledged research.
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