Magnetic Confinement Fusion: Advancing Plasma Research with Physics-Driven Simulations
Fusion is the process that powers the Sun, where atomic nuclei combine to release vast amounts of energy. Magnetic confinement fusion aims to replicate this on Earth using devices like tokamaks, which confine and control superheated plasma. In the tokamak’s core, where temperatures reach millions of degrees, energy transport processes are vital for sustaining fusion. Pablo Rodriguez Fernandez and the Magnetic Fusion Experiments Integrated Modelling (MFE-IM) group address these challenges by combining advanced numerical computation algorithms with machine learning techniques. This innovative approach accelerates the analysis of plasma dynamics, paving the way for improved reactor performance and progress in the quest for clean and sustainable fusion energy. In this talk, we will explore the fundamentals of plasma, the fourth state of matter, and its role in fusion energy. Javier Pimentel will showcase his work on the MAESTRO framework, a powerful tool for plasma analysis, and discuss its application in studying key phenomena within the tokamak’s core. Adrian Martin will give us insight on his work with PORTALS a powerful software developed by the MFE-IM that uses surrogate-based optimization and optimization techniques to predict core plasma profiles and performance at a reduced cost with no loss of acucracy. Through this, we aim to enhance our understanding of plasma behavior and contribute to the advancement of fusion reactor technology.
Speakers: Javier Pimentel Aldaz (master's student in in Aerospace Engineering at the School of Aeronautical and Space Engineering (ETSIAE) at the Technical University of Madrid (UPM) & Adrian Martin Sanabria (master’s student in Machine Learning and Big Data at the School of Computer Systems Engineering (ETSISI) at the Technical University of Madrid (UPM).
LAB: MEF Integrated Modeling Group.
Language Models as Operator Agents in the Space Domain
At MIT’s ArcLab, Alejandro will focus on applying Artificial Intelligence to complex space autonomous systems, with a special emphasis on spacecraft control and dexterous robotics. ArcLab is dedicated to pioneering new frontiers in aerospace robotics and AI through cutting-edge research and hands-on innovation. By bridging theoretical insight and real-world engineering, Alejandro aspires to develop next-generation solutions that advance the state of space exploration.
Speakers: Alejandro Carrasco Aragón (PhD student at MIT).
LAB: MIT ArcLab Lab at AeroAstro.
LOCATION:RCCHU Conference Room STATUS:CONFIRMED DTSTART:20250314T213000Z DTEND:20250314T223000Z END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR