Compact Tori as Extensions of the Spherical Tokamak

The need for a flexible experimental facility, capable of studying several alternate confinement concepts simultaneously, is discussed. A facility suitable for both spherical tokamak (ST) and Field Reversed Configuration (FRC) studies is examined. Such a facility could advance the physics database of both concepts at a minimum cost. An International Center for Alternate Confinement Studies is proposed to develop such facilities and to provide opportunities for international collaboration in this critical area.