Fusion is the energy source of the sun and the stars. On earth, fusion research is aimed at demonstrating that this energy source can be used to produce electricity and/or high grade process heat in a safe and environmentally benign way, with abundant fuel resources, to meet the needs of a growing world population. The development of fusion energy is considered one of the mankind's greatest challenges. This presentation will provide an overview of some of the technical challenges that must be overcome in order for fusion to be an reliable energy source.