major components

The following are major components for a fusion engine for interplanetary spacecraft. It's the simplest, most reliable, most robust design i can envision. Will it work? In the very least, we need to realistically simulate it ^^ :) Mostly likely, we'll have to combine functionality of several simulation environments to perform this. Once we get a workable realistic simulation, we build a prototype :) After proving the concept, we need to try it in practice 8) If it works, this could be the most exciting moment since Neil put his foot on the Moon :) Why? It opens the solar system and beyond to us :) The real question is: what the f are we waiting for? ^^ 8)

chillers

power consumers, they refrigerate selected components below

deuterium reservoir

the physical input for this power system

deuterium ionizer

power consumer, required as pre-stage for exciter below

rf plasma exciter

power consumer, similar to a microwave oven but modified for deuterium plasma

3-stage pinch field generator

power generator/consumer, three progressively tightening magnetic pinch fields constricting sequentially such that excited plasma is forced into the third magnetic chamber

laser initiator

power consumer, triggers fusion in third chamber

liquid sodium heat extractor

power generator, extracts heat from around third chamber, employs steam turbine in a secondary loop

molten sodium batteries

provide energy stability and source for system startup

spacecraft load

power consumer, energy for life-support, instrumentation, etc

exhaust port

a physical and magnetic opening aft of components above

A few years ago, i wrote Larry Niven about collaborating on screenplays to 'bring to life' his amazing stories. For those unfamiliar, Larry carries on a tradition started by EE Smith and Asimov of creating 'hard sci-fi' realistic adventures with a sassy flavor unique to Larry. :) Perhaps my favorite Niven story is Protector. A gem of a book as wonderful as Wizard of Earthsea. ^^ [he] Sorry ;) Just Christmas time and i suggest running out to your local bookstore before they close – putting a copy in your 'favorite stocking' ;) Better than candy ;)~ Anyways, back to Niven – he declined :( But i don't hold grudges.. After all, he inspired the design above ^^ :) Thanks Larry :) Merry Christmas / seasons greetings to all far and wide ;)