Thorium is a naturally-occurring abundant element potentially capable of producing power more safely and more efficiently than uranium-based nuclear reactors.
In the 1970s, Alvin Weinberg's team at Oak Ridge National Laboratory proved thorium a viable source of nuclear power using the Molten Salt Reactor process. This project was shelved, arguably because of thorium's inability to produce weapons-grade fissile material as a byproduct.
Using US research as a starting point, China announced a 10 year goal to have a thorium-based nuclear reactor online. Last week, that goal was 25 years. They are taking this seriously.
Let's take another look at Thorium reactor technology. Let's dust off Weinberg's research. Let's create a new 21st century space race and solve the global energy dilemma.