China breaks nuclear fusion record with 1,066-second plasma loop

China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), dubbed the 'artificial sun,' has set a new world record by maintaining a high-confinement plasma operation for 1,066 seconds, significantly surpassing the previous record of 403 seconds. This breakthrough, achieved at temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsius, marks a crucial step towards harnessing nuclear fusion as a clean energy source, which could potentially revolutionize energy generation without harmful emissions. Scientists emphasize that while the achievement is monumental, further advancements are needed to bridge the gap between experimental devices and commercially viable fusion reactors. Key conditions for successful fusion reactions include high temperature, plasma electron density, and prolonged energy output. The EAST project is part of a global collaboration, contributing to initiatives like the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France, which aims for its own milestones in the coming years. Despite the progress, experts caution that the transition from experimental achievements to practical energy solutions remains a significant challenge.