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?
Following the initial success of the Human Genome Project 18 years ago, new technology has enabled decoding of even more of the 3-billion-letter human genetic code. More work remains to sequence gaps and more diverse genetic backgrounds.
Have you ever imagined making new scientific discoveries about the cosmos? Technology allows ordinary citizens to make important contributions to scientific knowledge from the comfort of their homes, with many options available.
The complexities of human vision are evident in our ability to generalize between difference and sameness. Challenges remain in replicating the power of vision in machines, with both risks and benefits.
Major advances in brain-computer interface technologies may soon give us the power to control complex machinery with our minds. What opportunities and frontiers will open, for medical and other applications, and what ethical issues lie ahead?
The technology of astronomy explains the connection between the iron in our blood and the life cycle of stars. Every atom in our bodies was born in a star, and the iron flowing in our veins is the same iron that once caused a star’s supernova explosion.
Analyses of skulls of previously unknown human species discovered in Israel and China add more pieces to the puzzle of our evolution. DNA technology and scientific advances point to older and more extensive human presence on Earth.
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.