On International Cooperation in Fusion Research and Development

Controlled fusion research and development would not have proceeded nearly so well and might have stagnated in the United States and elsewhere without the international collaboration experienced to date. It is noted that: (a) the time perspectives are long, and the prospects for fusion will remain unclear for one or two more decades; (b) the costs and uncertainties will be minimized, and the prospects for success maximized, by increased collaboration during that period, which will benefit all participants; (c) the time is not yet ripe for building a large international (several billion dollar) fusion feasibility experiment; and (d) the best mix will consist mainly of nationally supported, but mutually decided on, programs. Specific suggestions are given.