  The Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) is the centre piece of the UK fusion
research programme. In 2010, a MAST Upgrade programme was initiated with three
primary objectives, to contribute to: 1) Testing reactor concepts (in
particular exhaust solutions via a flexible divertor allowing Super-X and other
extended leg configurations); 2) Adding to the knowledge base for ITER (by
addressing important plasma physics questions and developing predictive models
to help optimise ITER performance of ITER) and 3) Exploring the feasibility of
using a spherical tokamak as the basis for a fusion Component Test Facility.
With the project mid-way through its construction phase, progress will be
reported on a number of the critical subsystems. This will include manufacture
and assembly of the coils, armour and support structures that make up the new
divertors, construction of the new set coils that make up the centre column,
installation of the new power supplies for powering the divertor coils and
enhanced TF coil set, progress in delivering the upgraded diagnostic
capability, the modification and upgrading of the NBI heating systems and the
complete overhaul of the machine control infrastructure, including a new
control room with full remote participation facilities.
