Sunday, February 1, 2026

GeekWire questions the science behind Altman-supported fusion company Helion in Bloomberg report

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A fusion company in Everett, Washington, called Helion Energy, is facing concerns about its operations. The company, backed by Sam Altman of Open AI and with a deal with Microsoft, aims to produce commercially viable fusion power. However, its secretive nature has led to skepticism about meeting deadlines and impacting the industry. Helion plans to operate its seventh prototype reactor by the end of the year and build a fusion plant for Microsoft by 2028. Despite the challenges, the company remains focused on developing clean energy solutions. In response to allegations of internal strife, Helion emphasized its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. With $612 million in venture capital and contracts with Microsoft and steel manufacturer Nucor, Helion continues to push forward in the fusion sector. The company’s dedication to innovation and progress remains at the forefront of its mission.


Vocabulary List:

  1. Concerns /kənˈsɜrnz/ (noun): Feelings of worry or anxiety about something.
  2. Skepticism /ˈskɛp.tɪ.sɪ.zəm/ (noun): An attitude of doubt or a disposition to incredulity.
  3. Prototype /ˈprəʊ.tə.taɪp/ (noun): A first or preliminary version of a device or vehicle from which other forms are developed.
  4. Allegations /ˌæl.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃənz/ (noun): Claims or assertions that someone has done something illegal or wrong.
  5. Commitment /kəˈmɪt.mənt/ (noun): The state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity.
  6. Innovation /ˌɪn.əʊˈveɪ.ʃən/ (noun): The introduction of new ideas methods or products.

How much do you know?

Where is Helion Energy located?
Everett Washington
Seattle Washington
Portland Oregon
San Francisco California
Who is the key figure behind Helion Energy?
Sam Altman
Bill Gates
Elon Musk
Mark Zuckerberg
What is Helion Energy's goal?
Producing commercially viable fusion power
Expanding into the aerospace industry
Developing self-driving cars
Creating virtual reality technology
When does Helion Energy aim to build a fusion plant for Microsoft?
2025
2028
2030
Never
How much venture capital does Helion Energy have?
$1 billion
$500 million
$612 million
$750 million
Who else does Helion Energy have contracts with?
Apple
Amazon
Microsoft
Google
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