ABSTRACT
The “Atoms for Peace” mission of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has proven itself since its creation 60 years ago to be integral to the future of human civilization, in three compelling ways. First, it enables remarkable direct globally coordinated scientific and technological peaceful contributions to society that have had and will continue to have significant positive impacts. Second, it seeks to prevent the application of any science and technology advancements toward any further proliferation of nuclear weapons. Finally, and most importantly, it provides both a framework and the incentives for all parties to work collaboratively for mutual benefit. This chapter describes in detail the 200-plus tokamaks built around the world over the past five decades. As of July 2020, the ITER project had reached two significant milestones: the readiness to begin Machine Assembly Phase, and the completion of 70 percent of the total construction work scope through First Plasma.
