The Micromak debuts at New Scientist Live on the UKAEA stand

Micromak, the smallest member of the Minimak family, attracted sustained public interest on the UK Atomic Energy Authority’s stand at New Scientist Live, with engagement exceeding expectations. Positioned alongside UKAEA’s fusion displays, the compact plasma demonstrator gave visitors a close look at the engineering behind magnetic confinement. Recorded plasma sequences on its touchscreen complemented the physical device, helping the outreach team explain the roles of magnets, vacuum and plasma in fusion research.

The response highlighted the power of a tangible scientific exhibit to spark curiosity and conversation. Visible coils, viewports and a real vacuum chamber gave visitors something to explore and presenters something to point to, making an unfamiliar subject more approachable. For the Minimak project, the event marked an encouraging milestone in bringing fusion into public view and helping people of all ages connect with its science and engineering.