China commissions new-generation 'artificial sun'

CHENGDU -- The HL-2M Tokamak, China's new-generation "artificial sun," went into operation on Friday and achieved its first plasma discharge, according to China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

Designed to replicate the natural reactions that occur in the sun using hydrogen and deuterium gases as fuels, the apparatus in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, will provide clean energy through controlled nuclear fusion, said CNNC.