The kind of heat that the scientists at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) in Livermore, California generate most days is pretty unusual - unless you happen to be sitting in the deep core of an active star. Using the world’s largest laser, the researchers are able to exceed temperatures of 100 million degrees and create pressures that exceed 100 billion times the Earth’s atmosphere. Visit the site to learn about NIF’s various projects, from nuclear stockpile stewardship to building a fusion based fuel source. The About section is especially informative, with a comprehensive FAQ. Next, check out Science for half a dozen links to the center’s various endeavors, including Energy for the Future and How to Make a Star.