ITER Fusion Reactor Faces Significant Delays, Extending Timeline by 15 Years

The world's largest fusion project, originally set for 2025, now aims for initial operation in 2039 due to technical and financial hurdles.

ITER's first plasma operation has been postponed from 2025 to 2039.
The project has faced numerous challenges, including COVID-19 disruptions and manufacturing issues.
The budget has ballooned from $5 billion to over $22 billion, with an additional $5 billion needed.
The new plan focuses on a more complete machine and additional testing to ensure reliability.
Fusion power remains a promising but elusive goal for clean energy, with ITER's success still uncertain.