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?
Nuclear fusion powers stars and holds the potential to deliver practically unlimited amounts of clean energy to humanity. Artificial intelligence is providing the means to control and direct fusion reactions as we make significant advances in developing the technology.
In orbit 1.5 million km from Earth, the James Webb Space Telescope delivered its first images in July with stunning detail. Using infrared detection technology, Webb looks back in time over 13 billion years and promises to unlock mysteries hidden in the earliest light of the universe.
First conceived a century ago, the science of crystallography finds new use in the search for bacteria and other lifeforms on Mars. Analysis of crystals on Earth’s neighbor may lead to the detection of life-sustaining water.
Trillions of neutrinos pass through our bodies every second – could they account for the 95% of the “dark” universe that is invisible to us? Recent discoveries of the shape-shifting nature of neutrinos and models of dark matter and mass shed new light on the question.
The power of CRISPR technology gives humans the ability to manipulate and edit the genetic blueprint of a living organism. While it presents incredible potential for medicine and food production, there are many ethical issues to be addressed.
Every snowflake that has ever formed in nature is unique. Although very similar patterns can be created artificially, even the most controlled laboratory conditions cannot replicate the beauty of nature’s six-fold symmetry.
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.