The latest edition of The Prototype brings us a fascinating look at the use of portable ultrasound devices by astronauts, a groundbreaking discovery in shipbuilding technology, massive investments in AI “neolabs,” and more exciting developments in the world of science and technology.
NASA recently conducted the first medical evacuation from the International Space Station, with astronaut Mike Fincke highlighting the importance of a portable ultrasound machine in the mission. While NASA did not disclose the specific equipment used, there are several possibilities on board, including the GE Healthcare Vivid iq and the Butterfly iQ. The Butterfly iQ, a handheld ultrasound device, has been in orbit for nearly five years and is used to monitor astronauts’ health in space.
The Butterfly portable imager has revolutionized ultrasound technology with its compact size and advanced features. Used in various medical settings on Earth, the device is also essential for monitoring astronauts’ health aboard the space station. John Martin, Butterfly’s chief medical officer emeritus, emphasized the device’s versatility and affordability, making it accessible in challenging environments worldwide.
In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers at the University of Rochester have developed aluminum tubes that are virtually unsinkable. By etching the tubes’ interiors with lasers to create superhydrophobic surfaces, the researchers have created buoyant structures that remain afloat even when severely damaged. These tubes could revolutionize shipbuilding and maritime safety, offering a new approach to creating unsinkable ships and floating platforms.
The rise of AI “neolabs” attracting billions in investor funding without tangible products or revenue raises questions about the sustainability of such ventures. While innovation is essential in the AI landscape, the focus on building new models without clear paths to market success is a point of contention. Investors are looking for profitability and market viability in AI startups, highlighting the importance of aligning innovation with tangible outcomes.
In other science and tech news, self-driving truck startup Waabi secures significant funding to commercialize its robotrucks, while quantum computing giant IonQ acquires semiconductor foundry SkyWater Technology in a multi-billion-dollar deal. Startup Northwood Space, specializing in ground stations for satellite signals, secures a substantial investment and a partnership with the Space Force. Astronomers have also discovered an Earth-sized planet with a potentially habitable orbit around its star, opening new possibilities for extraterrestrial exploration.
As we delve into the world of AI, unsinkable ships, and cutting-edge technology, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged with the latest developments shaping the future of science and innovation. The possibilities are endless, and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries is within reach. Stay tuned for more exciting updates in the world of science and technology.
