Explore with us some of the latest developments in science, including physics, biology, mathematics, chemistry, information, and astronomy. Imagine what the future holds with today’s discoveries in these and other scientific pursuits. Along the way we will encounter fascinating people and their ideas that push the boundaries of science and shape the future direction of knowledge.
We feature some of the latest developments in a range of scientific branches, highlighting the human ingenuity and circumstances that lead to discovery and new technologies. We explain the ideas, the problems that led to the solutions, and the function of the discoveries, in words designed for the general audience so no background in science is required to appreciate the work of the scientists. The ideas for our stories are drawn from other freely-available publications as well as paid subscriptions, and we welcome contributions and story ideas from volunteer contributors. Join our science writers Mariana Meneses and Saulo Silvestre as we explore the exciting new developments in science and the showcase the good people who dedicate their life’s work to the advancement of knowledge and the human mission.
New synchrotron radiation and neutron beam technologies in Brazil’s Sirius and the European Spallation Source in Sweden promise unprecedented insights into the fundamental properties of materials. Illuminating hidden parts of nature could lead to groundbreaking discoveries and revolutionize research in many scientific fields.
The increasing integration of nature’s mechanisms with robotics is enabling precision control of industrial robots, while raising concerns about biosecurity and ethical implications. With bio-inspired sensing systems, brain-computer interfaces enhancing human capabilities, and biomimicry inspiring new applications, the boundaries between artificial intelligence and cognitive sciences are blurring and raising questions about human outcomes.
A renewed focus on studying cosmic voids, the “nothingness” that occupies an estimated 90% of space, is yielding new information about the evolution of the universe. If the voids are remnants of vibrations from the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago, what might they tell us about the tiniest bit of energy, the quantum, and the fluctuating quantum energy of the vacuum of space?
Navigation systems provide guidance for tasks requiring spatial positioning. They have wide-ranging applications, but come with risks like accidents caused by over-reliance, hacking, and improper use, among others. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining awareness of unusual situations, and human oversight in development, regulation, and use of the technology.
Recent advancements have brought us closer to achieving clean, limitless energy through nuclear fusion, a process where lightweight atoms combine to release heat like that of the stars. However, challenges remain, including sustaining a net energy gain and supply of tritium. Ongoing global research aims to develop a commercially viable process for fusion energy.
A major global shift in transportation is underway with the rapid increase in demand for electric vehicles. We survey the current potential for benefit as well as the challenges of EVs and two other emerging transportation technologies, the Hyperloop and supersonic flight, considering their environmental implications, technological hurdles, and economic consequences.
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming many aspects aviation, including maintenance, air traffic management, aircraft design, passenger experience, and security. Will the future of passenger flight be powered by electric engines?
The coastal devastation of the 2019 oil spill in Brazil highlights the continuing need for a combination of legislation, cleaner technologies, and technologies that clean. We survey some encouraging developments on all three fronts that can protect the environment and all life that depends on it.
Biodiversity loss threatens human survival. The race against time to halt the loss of the variability and the variety of Earth’s living species demands urgent action and comprehensive solutions to protect the planet’s delicate and complex web of life.
The Quantum Record is a non-profit journal of philosophy, science, technology, and time. The potential of the future is in the human mind and heart, and in the common ground that we all share on the road to tomorrow. Promoting reflection, discussion, and imagination, The Quantum Record highlights the good work of good people and aims to join many perspectives in shaping the best possible time to come. We would love to stay in touch with you, and add your voice to the dialogue.