Hefei, China — 24 November 2025 — EUROfusion and the Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP), have officially released the first edition of the Research Plan for the Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (BEST). The release ceremony took place in the context of a high-level meeting at the Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Hefei, China EUROfusion was represented by its Programme Manager and the Head of Office for International collaborations.
Why BEST matters
BEST is a compact, high-field tokamak under rapid construction at ASIPP in Hefei. It is designed to explore burning-plasma physics at fusion gain (Q) > 5, enable advanced deuterium–tritium plasma operations, and provide a platform for critical tests of materials, blanket modules, and fuel cycles. With the main building completed and pre-assembly underway, first plasma is targeted for 2027. These unique capabilities complement EUROfusion’s broader mission—strengthening the scientific basis for ITER and future pilot power plant reactors.
Gianfranco Federici, EUROfusion Programme Manager said:
„I wish to congratulate the ASIPP BEST Team and the EUROfusion Topical Group Coordinators for developing a very important and ambitious joint research plan for the BEST Device to advance the knowledge towards burning plasma physics and the supporting technologies.“
A structured, reciprocal collaboration
The Research Plan sets out joint definition of research objectives, coordinated scenario development, and joint exploitation of experimental opportunities on BEST. Both sides have nominated coordinators and experts to ensure balanced leadership. Collaboration will be governed by a dedicated Technology Management Plan (TMP) for BEST, operating in parallel with the long-standing CFETR–DEMO TMP, to enable efficient, mutually beneficial decision-making.
Marco Wischmeier, Head of Plasma Science Department to ITER, DEMO and stellarators said:
“The development of a joint research plan for BEST represents a key initial milestone in building a productive and mutually beneficial collaboration between European partners and colleagues from ASIPP.”
What comes next
Following the release, EUROfusion and ASIPP will finalise work planning towards early BEST experimental campaigns and shared analysis. Further updates will appear on the EUROfusion website as milestones are reached.
The research plan can be downloaded here.
