Nuclear fusion may sound like the high-tech energy of the future, but a recent breakthrough is getting us closer to that sci-fi reality — and it’s all thanks to simple magnets like the ones on your refrigerator.

Plus, this week’s must-see video highlights the next-level abilities of Tesla’s new product, showing how it can still perform under extreme conditions.

These simple magnets could help unlock one of the world’s most powerful energy sources

A breakthrough involving refrigerator-type magnets could bring us one step closer to generating mass amounts of energy with nuclear fusion.

Scientists at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory figured out how to use strong versions of simple magnets (rather than expensive electromagnets) to build the device that holds the superheated plasma fuel for fusion reactors, called a stellarator.

Nuclear fusion, the same reaction that powers the sun and other stars, is seen as a potential pollution-free source of energy, but the technology to produce energy this way is still being developed. Lower-cost designs for fusion reactors could help make it a more affordable option.

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🔋🗓️ This all-new EV battery is built to last for close to a million miles

Chinese battery maker CATL developed a battery pack for electric buses and trucks with a warranty of 15 years or nearly one million miles, which is being called an industry first.

✈️⛽ A historic engine test is bringing the future of air travel much closer to reality

A widely used commercial jet engine was able to run on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in a recent test, which could translate to flights that produce significantly less pollution.

🏡⚡ See inside the remarkable home that produces more energy than it consumes

This green home built in an English national park uses renewable energy and air-tight design to maximize efficiency, consuming 110% less energy than a house powered by gas.

🇨🇳🔬 Scientists have made a truly wild discovery about the Great Wall of China

Scientists found that the Great Wall of China has a “living skin” made of cyanobacteria, moss, and other biological materials that help improve stability and protect against erosion.

🥵🌿 A new study is sharing some surprising details about heat pump technology

Even when powered by electricity from pollution-producing sources, heat pumps can lower the pollution created by household energy on average by 36- 64%, according to a recent study.

🛢️♨️ ‘Dead’ oil and gas wells could get a second life as clean energy storage centers

Researchers found that oil and gas wells in the Illinois Basin could be repurposed to store geothermal energy, acting as a large and affordable underground battery.

🛰️🌊 Unreal NASA imaging shows how an ancient lake reemerged from generations of drought

A satellite launched in 2022 was able to provide detailed mapping of Lake Manly, which reappeared in Death Valley last year following record rainfalls.

GOTTA SEE THIS

This amazing test footage shows how Tesla’s home energy tech can survive even the harshest conditions

Tesla’s latest home energy storage system, the Powerwall 3, is designed to keep electricity flowing in emergency situations, and this week’s must-see video shows how this version of the product takes it to the next level.

The wild footage shows how the Powerwall can supposedly power multiple appliances even in the harshest conditions — including while partially submerged in a fish tank.

Watch the full clip →