Eight years have passed since the Fusion Day, organized by the Austrian Fusion Research Unit, was last held in Innsbruck. On November 8, 2024, the scientists of the Austrian fusion research program finally gathered again in the Tyrolean capital to exchange ideas and network, surrounded by the beautiful mountain scenery.

A total of 45 participants from all over Austria came to take part in the 11th Fusion Day, to present their latest results and discuss ideas with their colleagues.

The event was opened by Professor Friedrich Aumayr, Head of research of the Austrian Fusion Research Unit. He warmly welcomed all participants.

Prof. Karl Lackner from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics in Garching (IPP) was invited as this year's guest speaker. In his interesting presentation entitled “Start-ups - a broad range of alternatives!?”, he gave an overview and a realistic scientific assessment of the many start-ups working on nuclear fusion and the various approaches that are being used to achieve energy production.

The guest lecture was followed by several 20-minute presentations by students and project group leaders, who presented the latest research results from their working groups.

The Austrian fusion research program currently comprises 11 research groups from Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, Leoben and Innsbruck. It is part of EUROfusion, the European Consortium for the Development of Fusion Energy.