News
Between science and science fiction: Prof. Dr. Markus Roth, spokesperson for the former LOEWE research area Nuclear Photonics, talks about nuclear fusion, research and visions for the future
In the tenth episode of the Darmstadt podcast “Heinermania”, Prof. Dr. Markus Roth, spokesperson for the former LOEWE focus area Nuclear Photonics, is our guest. He is a proven expert in laser and plasma physics and co-founder of the start-up Focused Energy. In the interview, he talks about his career, his research and his vision of building a pilot plant for controlled nuclear fusion at the RWE site in Biblis by 2035. For Roth, this project is nothing less than the most ambitious experiment in human history: creating an artificial star on Earth and generating usable energy from it.
In addition to his scientific work, Roth talks about his enthusiasm for the TV series Star Trek, his favorite version of the Enterprise and the boundaries between physical reality and science fiction. He explains why nuclear fusion is within reach, but why the Enterprise's “warp drive” will remain wishful thinking for the foreseeable future.
He also provides personal insights in the podcast: Roth talks about his connection to Darmstadt, gives an event tip and pleads for more confidence in everyday life. His motto: “Just do it!”
The episode is now available here: