Benedettini Protostar Reactor Theory: Theoretical Design and Energetic Assessment of a Compact Metastable Configuration

This paper presents a purely theoretical conceptual design of a compact, self-sustaining energy source based on a metastable protostellar configuration. The core is modelled as Pu-239 surrounded by neutron reflectors and moderated by Cf-252, encased in layers of beryllium and a laser-compressed shell. Plasma behaviour is examined under adaptive magnetic confinement fields. The study explores equilibrium conditions between solid and liquid nuclear-fuel phases, modelling energy output, confinement requirements, and safety scenarios that suggest potential feasibility for long-term operation with a net positive energy balance.