• The Central Solenoid, a powerful superconducting magnet system built in the US, has been delivered to the ITER project in France.
• ITER aims to validate nuclear fusion as a viable energy source, with the goal of generating 500 megawatts of energy from 50 megawatts of input.
• The project, involving over 30 countries, represents a major international collaboration towards achieving a sustainable and carbon-free energy future.

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), located in Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France, is a global scientific project involving 35 countries to demonstrate the feasibility of nuclear fusion as a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. A critical component, the Central Solenoid, a powerful superconducting magnet system designed and built in the United States, has been delivered to the site. This "magnetic heart" is essential for generating and containing the superheated plasma required for fusion reactions within the tokamak reactor.

• What: Delivery and installation of the Central Solenoid, a crucial component for the ITER nuclear fusion reactor, designed to generate and contain superheated plasma.
• Who: ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor), United States (builder of the Central Solenoid), 35 participating countries, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Superbolt, European Union, China, Russia, Korea, Japan, India
• When: The Central Solenoid delivery occurred recently (early May 2025, based on article dates). ITER aims to achieve its goals in the coming years.
• Where: Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France (location of the ITER project). The Central Solenoid was built and tested in the United States.

The ITER project, with the Central Solenoid as a critical part, represents a significant international effort to develop nuclear fusion as a viable energy source. While both articles present the project positively, they also acknowledge the substantial challenges and the long timeline involved. The 'This Giant Magnet' article provides a more critical perspective, noting that ITER is primarily a technology demonstrator and that commercially viable fusion remains a distant goal. The successful delivery and installation of the Central Solenoid, despite geopolitical tensions, highlights the commitment of the participating countries to this ambitious project.

"With ITER, we show that a sustainable energy future and a peaceful path forward are possible."

The ITER project's progress with the arrival of the Central Solenoid marks a crucial step towards harnessing nuclear fusion. Despite the significant financial investment and technical challenges, the international collaboration demonstrates a commitment to exploring sustainable energy solutions. While the path to commercially viable fusion energy remains uncertain, ITER's advancements contribute valuable knowledge and pave the way for future innovations in the field.