Evgeny Velikhov, Russian physicist and academic
Evgeny Pavlovich Velikhov (born on February 2, 1935, and known in Russian as Евгений Павлович Велихов) stands as a profoundly influential physicist and a distinguished scientific leader within the Russian Federation. His career has been marked by extensive contributions across fundamental and applied physics, coupled with significant roles in scientific administration and public policy.
His expansive scientific interests encompass several critical domains of modern science and engineering, reflecting a versatile and impactful career:
- Plasma Physics: Velikhov is a leading authority in plasma physics, which involves the study of ionized gases—often referred to as the fourth state of matter. This field is crucial for understanding a vast array of phenomena, from the behavior of stars and interstellar nebulae to the development of controlled fusion energy on Earth.
- Lasers: He has made significant contributions to the development and application of lasers, exploring their potential across various scientific and technological frontiers, including high-power applications and materials processing.
- Controlled Nuclear Fusion: A central pillar of his scientific endeavor, controlled nuclear fusion research aims to harness the immense energy released when light atomic nuclei combine, a process that powers the sun. Velikhov has been a key global figure in this pursuit, notably serving as the Chairman of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) Council. ITER is a collaborative mega-project involving 35 nations, designed to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion power for electricity generation.
- Power Engineering: His interests extend to the broader field of power engineering, focusing on advanced concepts for the generation, transmission, and efficient distribution of electrical energy, often integrating cutting-edge physical principles and technologies.
- Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and High-Power Pulsed MHD Generators: Velikhov is a pioneer in magnetohydrodynamics, which investigates the dynamics of electrically conducting fluids in the presence of magnetic fields. His work on high-power pulsed MHD generators involves devices capable of directly converting the kinetic energy of a rapidly moving conductive fluid into electrical energy, offering unique capabilities for applications requiring instantaneous, high-energy power bursts.
Throughout his prolific career, Evgeny Velikhov has authored an extraordinary volume of work, comprising over 1500 scientific publications. This extensive body of research includes numerous foundational inventions and significant discoveries that have substantially advanced various scientific and technological disciplines globally.
Beyond his groundbreaking research, Velikhov has held highly influential leadership positions, playing a pivotal role in shaping the direction of science and public policy in Russia:
- He has served as the long-standing President of the National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute." Named after Igor Kurchatov, the institute is a preeminent multidisciplinary research institution in Russia, historically central to the development of nuclear energy and a major hub for advanced research in fields such as nuclear physics, controlled fusion, and nanotechnology.
- He also held the significant post of First Secretary (head) of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation. This advisory body serves as a crucial platform for dialogue between civil society and the government, ensuring public participation in policymaking and providing oversight on governmental activities.
- An esteemed member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Velikhov's profound contributions are recognized at the highest echelons of Russian academia. His influence spans different historical periods, underscored by his past role as the vice-president of the Academy of Sciences of the Soviet Union, demonstrating his enduring impact on scientific governance.
Notably, Evgeny Velikhov played a crucial, immediate, and courageous role in the aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. His rapid deployment to the site and expert scientific assessment were instrumental in understanding the scale and nature of the catastrophe, providing critical guidance for the initial response efforts and demonstrating his commitment to applying scientific knowledge in moments of national and international crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Evgeny Pavlovich Velikhov
- Who is Evgeny Pavlovich Velikhov and what are his main fields of expertise?
- Evgeny Pavlovich Velikhov is a distinguished Russian physicist and scientific leader, born in 1935. His primary fields of expertise include plasma physics, laser technology, controlled nuclear fusion, power engineering, and magnetohydrodynamics (MHD generators).
- What is Velikhov's involvement with controlled nuclear fusion, particularly the ITER project?
- Controlled nuclear fusion is a major focus of Velikhov's work, aiming to develop a sustainable energy source. He has been a pivotal international figure in this field, notably serving as the Chairman of the ITER Council, which oversees the global International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor project.
- What prominent leadership roles has Evgeny Velikhov held?
- Evgeny Velikhov has held several highly influential leadership positions, including President of the Kurchatov Institute, First Secretary (head) of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation, and former vice-president of the Academy of Sciences of the Soviet Union. He is also a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
- Did Velikhov play a role in major historical events or disasters?
- Yes, Evgeny Velikhov played a critical role in the immediate aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. He provided crucial scientific expertise and leadership on-site to assess the situation and guide the emergency response efforts.