Speaker: Prof. Thomas Klinger, IPP Greifswald, Germany
Abstract: After a brief survey of the design and optimization principles of the superconducting stellarator device Wendelstein 7-X, the steps are described towards high-performance (in terms of density, temperature, confinement) and long-duration (in terms of stability, radiation, exhaust) plasmas. This is done along the lines of the present understanding of experimental observations and findings. The plasma in Wendelstein 7-X is turbulent, which has a strong impact on heat and particle transport. Methods to tame the turbulence are required for high-performance parameters. The heat and particle exhaust depends largely on the divertor functionality. The island divertor realized in Wendelstein 7-X shows allows for robust detachment and reasonable pumping. The full exploitation of Wendelstein 7-X is still in its beginnings, but the pathway towards fusion reactor relevant plasma operation becomes already visible.