Abstract of the Offer
First Light Fusion, based in Oxford, UK, has its heritage in fusion science and now offers world class facilities for testing and innovation under extreme conditions. With our M3 pulsed power machine, one of the largest in the world, and advanced data science, simulation and machine learning, we provide unique capabilities for space, defence and advanced engineering in pressure, radiation and materials research.
Description
The technology offered by First Light comprises a suite of experimental and computational platforms designed to reproduce and study matter under extreme conditions. These facilities include the M3 pulsed power machine and our world-class data science and simulation capabilities. All of our experimental platforms are coupled to world-class diagnostics, enabling high-resolution measurement and validation. Together they enable the generation, measurement, and modelling of high-energy-density environments relevant to both terrestrial and space applications.
The pulsed power platform generates extreme pulsed x-ray and K-shell flux, pressures, temperatures, and magnetic fields in a highly controlled laboratory setting. These conditions make it possible to study phenomena relevant to radiation environments, plasma-material interactions, and survivability of critical systems under sudden energetic loading. By bridging the gap between small-scale laboratory tests and the operational environment in orbit or beyond, the facility provides a pathway to de-risking mission hardware before flight.
Complementing the physical experiments, First Light offer extremely experienced and sophisticated Data Science and MHD Simulation capabilities. These include predictive models for impact dynamics, hydrodynamic behaviour, and material performance under stress. Combining experiments with high-fidelity computational analysis allows rapid iteration of designs and validation against real-world data, supporting both technology development and mission assurance.
Potential applications in the space domain include:
- Qualification of materials and subsystems for deep space radiation environments.
- Development of simulation frameworks to predict spacecraft survivability and performance under extreme conditions.
- Support to planetary defence and exploration missions requiring modelling of high-velocity impact events.
By uniting physical testing and computational modelling, this technology provides a comprehensive capability to investigate critical challenges in the design, validation, and protection of space systems.
Advantages and Innovations
The technology integrates large-scale experimental facilities with advanced computational modelling, enabling a multi-faceted approach to studying matter under extreme conditions. The innovative aspect lies in the combination of high-energy experimental platforms. M3, the world’s 2nd largest pulsed power machine, directly coupled to a specialist simulation and data science capability is a powerful combination. This allows rapid cycles of experiment, analysis, and simulation, reducing development time compared with fragmented approaches where each capability is accessed separately.
The pulsed power facility delivers pressures and energy densities comparable to those encountered in radiation-rich or plasma-exposed environments. Unlike conventional static or thermal test methods, it can recreate transient high-energy events, giving engineers insight into how structures and electronics will respond to rare but mission-critical conditions.
The location of physical experiments and modelling under one roof in a private facility is a further advantage. Real-time validation of simulations against experimental data ensures higher predictive accuracy while reducing reliance on expensive iterative prototyping. This integrated workflow lowers programme costs and accelerates qualification timelines.
In practical terms, users benefit from:
- Access to versatile pulsed power facilities
- High flux x-ray and K-shell radiation environment
- Capability to simulate high-energy pulses with rapid diagnostics for material and system response
- Reduced logistical and financial overheads by using co-located facilities
- Improved safety and mission assurance through data-driven validation of spacecraft designs
- A suite of world class diagnostics and experimental scientists
Together, these innovations create a comprehensive platform that offers faster, more reliable, and more cost-effective testing compared with single-method alternatives.