Tractor Beams
While its origins are based in science fiction, tractor beam technology is alive and well. The University of Sussex is using “high-amplitude soundwaves to generate an acoustic hologram.” NASA has also developed “optical-trapping” technology, which employs lasers to transport materials.
Holodeck
With 3D movies and VR headsets becoming a ubiquitous part of recreation, it’s safe to say that we’ve advanced out of the realm of fiction in this case. The future of virtual reality will have a close relationship with the development of artificial intelligence. Advances in 50 years time will seem like magic.
Cyborgs
While the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory’s advancements in modular prosthetic limbs are far cry from “The Borg,” the fact that patients can now “feel” and control robotic limbs is pretty futuristic.
Ion Propulsion
Ok, it’s not Warp Drive; faster-than-light speeds still resides in the science fiction world. NASA has been developing ion propulsion technology, which would increase interstellar travel to 90,000 miles per hour. That means there’s still no quick trip to Proxima B anytime soon.
Energy Weapons
Yep, laser guns are definitely a thing. Military and police applications include anti-missile defense to sonic weapons for quelling protests. Sharks with laser beams attached to their heads still in the works.
Medical Tricorder
If Dr. McCoy were a real person, he’d be the proud owner of a Fitbit. Health wearables are booming and are expected to be a $4 billion market by 2017. A device that effectively/instantly diagnoses medical conditions is still developing, but accessing real-time biometrics and readings is a reality.
Universal translator
Instant translation, we’re there. Japanese company Logbar created a wearable device that helps “communicate with anyone with any part of the world.” Additionally, both Google and Microsoft have developed real-time translation software for their communication platforms (Klingon not included).
We Boldly Went
Much of the technology that existed in the Trek-ian world seems laughably outdated compared to advancements of the past 50 years: personal computer and smart phones allow for instant access of information and global communication; voice-activated technology like Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Echo enable hand-free commanded tasks; and the automated doors that seemed like magic in the Trek world are pretty much a universal convenience.
What’s certain is humanity’s ability to imagine advancements in technology outside the realm of possible, and strive to make fantasy a reality.
We are the change the world has been waiting for!
Have you witnessed an unidentified flying object?
Whether you think UFOs are black projects, extraterrestrial craft, something else altogether, or just don’t know.
Unconditional love. The road we all get to walk. Unconditional love is like the sun.
WE ARE THE DISCLOSURE ~ WE HAVE NEVER BEEN ALONE
Love and Regards,
Happy Quarantine
Thank You,
Nancy Thames
Source: Leif Walcutt