So ITER — the international fusion-power experiment whose faltering progress sometimes seems to echo that of fusion research itself— may finally be built, after all. The countries involved have agreed in principle that construction should begin in France next year. No one will question the technical capabilities of the hosts: France has an awesome tradition in nuclear technology, a strong will to make the project happen, and firm backing from the rest of the European Union (EU). A few reservations remain about the technical approach taken in ITER's design (see page 318), but most fusion researchers are delighted that the project looks set to proceed.
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