A breakthrough in human knowledge of the universe is expected in 2021. The picture shows the schematic diagram of space near a black hole.
Technology is like a double-edged sword, used by the righteous, can help people solve many problems; if unfortunately used by the evil, it will become a tool to destroy humanity. The editors of the BBC’s technology column introduced these areas of science and technology this year is likely to appear new breakthroughs, it is worth paying attention to.
- The virus that can save lives
Virus attack bacteria diagram.
Recently, people’s attention has been focused on the global pandemic, but before that, the world also faced another big problem – the emergence of various “superbugs”. More and more bacteria are becoming resistant to drugs, and more and more people are dying from infections for which no antibiotics are available.
This year, scientists are expected to break new ground in how to use phage therapy to treat bacteria. Researchers already know that almost every bacterium has its “natural enemy” viruses, also called phages, that burrow into bacteria, inject their DNA into the bacteria and begin to multiply inside to cause deadly damage to the bacteria.
Therefore, scientists are researching phage therapy to find viruses that are specifically designed to deal with various types of superbugs and use them to develop safe and effective bactericidal therapies.
- CubeSat constellation to explore space
CubeSat diagram.
In recent years scientists have found that small cube satellites have unique advantages in space exploration and do not necessarily have to use large, expensive spacecraft and probes. These cube devices are small, inexpensive, and have just as much capability in a large group together.
For example, scientists are considering using swarmed CubeSats together to intercept Earth-bound asteroids. These satellites could study information about the physical properties, chemical composition, etc. of multiple asteroids at once and simultaneously.
Similarly, scientists can also launch thousands of such small satellites to explore space and map the distribution of radiation intensity in space, which will help humans avoid those areas with particularly strong radiation during future space travel.
- The field of paleontology may see a large number of discoveries
Now through the sample protein analysis, scientists can understand the earliest to 3.4 million years ago clues; in contrast, the oldest DNA fragment analysis can only detect 800,000 years ago information.
This relatively new area of research will reveal more of the secrets of humans in ancient times, and perhaps this year will bring more exciting breakthrough discoveries.
- The use of cloning technology
Twenty-five years have passed since the first cloned sheep were born. Cloning technology controversy continues. Now it has become easier and easier to clone animals.
Some researchers believe that the technology could be used to clone working dogs with superior genetics. These cloned working dogs are easier to train and more capable of working than those born from natural conception.
It seems that in 2021, there are still a lot of researchers into this field of research, such as cloning some endangered species, or even bringing back some species that have become extinct. In addition, there are some people who want to clone pets so that they continue to live and meet the emotional needs of owners.
- Use of virtual reality technology to treat mental disorders
Virtual reality technology can now be quite realistic, so that people feel immersive point. Some psychologists have begun to consider using this technology to help treat some of the psychological disorders of people.
For example, using virtual reality to help people with “fear of heights” to overcome this psychological problem is much safer and less expensive than leading patients into a real building.
- The leap of knowledge of the universe
Human knowledge of the universe is expected to make a breakthrough in 2021. The picture shows a schematic of space near a black hole.
For a long Time, scientists have had a seemingly stable theory for understanding the universe. However, in recent years, numerous studies have found more and more doubts and contradictions in this model of cosmic knowledge. As radio astronomer Marcus Chown recently wrote, “The cracks in cosmology: Why our Universe doesn’t add up. ‘t add up).
In this new year, as scientists explore gravitational waves further, they may find more answers about the origin of the universe.
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