Design and Optimization of the Columbia Stellarator eXperiment

Explore a detailed technical presentation on the Columbia Stellarator eXperiment (CSX) design process, currently being developed at Columbia University. Learn about this innovative plasma physics experiment aimed at investigating quasi-axisymmetric plasmas at small aspect ratios and validating recent stellarator theory advancements. Discover how CSX will test key theoretical predictions including plasma flow damping, MHD stability, and trapped particle confinement. The talk explains the unique magnetic field configuration generated by circular planar poloidal field coils and shaped interlinked coils, with details on how components from the former Columbia Non-Neutral Torus experiment are being repurposed alongside new high-temperature superconducting tape technology. Understand the engineering challenges in creating plasma shapes that satisfy physics objectives with limited coils, and how novel single-stage optimization techniques are being employed where plasma and coils are optimized concurrently. The presentation covers comparative optimization methodologies, multi-filament modeling accounting for finite coil thickness, and assessments of robustness against manufacturing errors, providing critical insights into fusion energy research and stellarator design.