UK-based inertial fusion company First Light Fusion has produced X-rays for the first time on Machine 3 (M3), its largest pulsed power facility. This demonstrated First Light’s capabilities in producing extreme states of matter using cheap, simple ‘long-pulse’ driver technology. The result comes as the company continues to expand its capabilities from Machine 2 (M2), its smaller pulsed power machine, to M3.
In February, First Light, founded in 2011 as a spin-out from the University of Oxford, announced a policy change. The company, which is pursuing a new form of inertial confinement fusion, decided to discontinue the proposed development of its demonstrator, Machine 4, to focus on advancing and commercialising its patented amplifier technology.
In March, the company announced the next phase of its commercial and technical strategy that will see it enable a faster, cheaper and scalable route to commercial inertial fusion energy with frontier industry partners. In addition, the company has developed an end-to-end ‘low power driver’ approach to inertial fusion with its unique
First Light’s team has successfully recorded the production of X-rays on M3 for the first time – a critical step in developing cylindrical implosion platforms for multiple commercial applications. The company developed this capability on M2, which is used as a testbed machine before demonstrating the approach on M3. This is an important milestone for the company in validating its ‘long pulsed’ driver technology in generating extreme states of matter and X-rays
First Light has now taken another step towards developing high-intensity X-ray radiation production as a service; attracting interest from industries needing to harden electronics or simulate space environments. Access to intense radiation sources is strategically important for UK national security, and First Light’s pulsed power facilities are uniquely positioned to be at the forefront in this area.
Ryan Ramsey, Chief Operations Officer, at First Light Fusion, said: “Our new strategy is focused on early commercialisation, and we are genuinely excited by the pace of progress we’ve achieved. This marks a significant step forward in delivering sovereign capabilities to adjacent markets, reinforcing the UK’s position in critical technologies.
He added: “M3’s architecture aligns with the requirements of a future fusion power plant; it’s more than a scientific tool – it represents a tangible move towards practical fusion energy. First Light’s pulsed power experiments offer access to extreme states of matter, enabling the study of fundamental physics essential to advancing inertial fusion.”
Meanwhile, Dr Nicholas Hawker, co-founder and former CEO of First Light Fusion, has stepped down and moved on from the company. “We are deeply grateful for Nick’s years of dedication, innovation, and leadership. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that has positioned First Light as a leader in the next era of energy,” the company said. “From a bold concept developed during his time at the University of Oxford, Nick helped turn a pioneering idea into a globally recognised fusion energy company. Under his guidance, First Light achieved key technical milestones and established a unique approach to fusion, and target-based power amplification remains at the heart of our strategy.”
In a post on X, Dr Hawker said: “I’m pleased to announce that I have finally moved on from @FLFusion. I’m proud of what we developed. Truly new, never-before-explored ideas are really rather uncommon.” He added: “I’m not considering doing anything more in fusion, which makes me a free agent. If I can help you, please do reach out. I’d be delighted to put my knowledge to good use. Other opportunities? Get in touch, I’m open-minded!”
