The Accomplishments and Next-Step Plan of EAST in Support of Fusion

DIII-D is using its flexibility and diagnostics to address the critical science required to enable next step fusion devices. Operating scenarios for ITER have been adapted to low torque and are now being optimized for transport. Three ELM mitigation scenarios have been developed to near-ITER parameters. New control techniques are managing the most challenging plasma instabilities. Disruption mitigation tools show promising dissipation strategies for runaway electrons and heat load. An off axis neutral beam upgrade has enabled sustainment of high βN capable steady state regimes. Divertor research is identifying the challenge, physics and candidate solutions for handling the hot plasma exhaust with notable progress in heat flux reduction using the snowflake configuration. This work is helping optimize design choices and prepare the scientific tools for operation in ITER, and resolve key elements of the plasma configuration and divertor solution for an FNSF.