The field of plasma science has progressed dramatically in recent years and is poised to make even more breakthroughs during the next decade. Some of these hoped-for advances, like the confinement of burning plasma by the international magnetic fusion experiment (ITER), will be critical steps toward making fusion a viable energy source. PLASMA SCIENCE: ADVANCING KNOWLEDGE IN THE NATIONAL INTEREST, a new report from the National Research Council, assesses the present state of the field and provides possible future directions for plasma science at the national level.
Reporters can obtain copies by contacting the National Academies' Office of News and Public Information at tel. 202-334-2138 or e-mail news@nas.edu. Advance copies of the report will be available to reporters only beginning at 2 P.M. EDT on Thursday, May 24. THE REPORT IS EMBARGOED AND NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE BEFORE 10 A.M. EDT TUESDAY, MAY 29.