The platform's quasi-final appearance
Since preparation work began in 2007 on the stretch of land that was to host the 42-hectare ITER platform, regular photographic surveys have been organized to document the progress of the installation's construction. Using helium balloons, helicopters, ultra-light fixed-wing aircrafts and taking advantage of the recent development of easily maneuverable drones, aerial photography experts (and sometimes ITER staff flying by the worksite on an aerial tour) have captured both the expanse and the minute details of the construction site.
In this most recent image, taken on a bright, cloudless day in late June, 14 years after construction was launched, the platform has acquired its quasi-final appearance. Civil works are now complete and the only "missing" structure is the Hot Cell & Radwaste Facility that will sit next to the Tokamak Complex.
The progress accomplished can be measured by viewing this series of photographs, taken in March 2013, August 2015, April 2016, August 2017 and December 2017. Impressive to say the least.