<p>Optical illusions have the ability to make the unfathomable become reality by tricking your brain into seeing something that isn&#8217;t there. A new optical illusion depicting cylinders, or maybe diamonds, has gone viral and it isn&#8217;t easy to figure out. The &#8216;impossible&#8217; shapes look like arrangements of diamonds from one angle, but once they are [&hellip;]</p>


This Cylinder and Diamond Illusion Will Blow Your Mind

<p>Optical illusions have the ability to make the unfathomable become reality by tricking your brain into seeing something that isn&#8217;t there. A new optical illusion depicting cylinders, or maybe diamonds, has gone viral and it isn&#8217;t easy to figure out. The &#8216;impossible&#8217; shapes look like arrangements of diamonds from one angle, but once they are flipped<strong> 180˚</strong> they become circles. Even more incredible are the same illusions joined together to create seemingly interlocking pieces. Prepare to be amazed by this optical illusion.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEuiOszNd6msGgqsD0f9YAQ"   rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><img decoding="async" class="img-responsive lazy" itemprop="image" src="http://cdn.interestingengineering.com//wp-content/themes/touchmedya/loading.gif" sizes="(max-width: 118px) 100vw, 118px" srcset="http://cdn.interestingengineering.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/05/YouTube-Subscribe.png 371w, http://cdn.interestingengineering.com//wp-content/uploads/2016/05/YouTube-Subscribe-300x115.png 300w" alt="YouTube-Subscribe" data-original="http://cdn.interestingengineering.com//wp-content/themes/touchmedya/loading.gif" /></a></p>


<p>Monkeypox, recently renamed mpox to avoid stigma, is a zoonotic disease that can cause painful, fluid-filled lesions and, in severe cases, death. </p>


New monkeypox strain with sexual transmission potential raises global concerns

Colorized transmission electron micrograph of monkeypox virus particles


<p></p>



<p>A new strain of the <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">monkeypox virus</a>, named clade Ib, has emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that appears to transmit more readily through sexual contact. This development has caused alarm among researchers, who fear a reprise of the devastating global mpox outbreak of 2022.</p>



<p>Clade I has long been known to cause localized outbreaks in Central Africa, but these were typically limited and rarely involved sexual transmission. However, the new clade Ib strain appears to have mutated, potentially allowing it to spread more efficiently through sexual contact. This raises concerns about a wider outbreak, especially considering the challenging conditions in the DRC.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echoes-of-the-past-and-unheeded-warnings">Echoes of the past and unheeded warnings</h3>



<p>Monkeypox, recently <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/health/congos-mpox-outbreak-threatened-by-stigma-against-gay-men"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">renamed mpox </a>to avoid stigma, is a zoonotic disease that can cause painful, fluid-filled lesions and, in severe cases, death. The virus is endemic in wild animals in parts of Africa and occasionally spills over to humans.</p>



<p>The first major human-to-human outbreak occurred in Nigeria in 2017, and researchers warned at the time that the virus might be adapting for sexual transmission. These warnings were largely ignored, leading to the global outbreak of 2022 that infected over 94,000 people and caused over 180 deaths. This outbreak, primarily driven by clade II, a less lethal strain, prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A storm in the DRC</h3>



<p>While <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/health/optimal-allocation-of-vaccines"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">global mpox</a> cases have declined since 2022, the DRC has seen a concerning rise. In 2023 alone, the country reported over 14,600 suspected cases and 650 deaths. The emergence of clade Ib in South Kivu province is particularly worrying as it appears concentrated among sex workers, suggesting efficient sexual transmission. This could lead to faster spread, potentially with minimal symptoms, according to Nicaise Ndembi, a virologist at the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.</p>



<p>The situation is further complicated by the limited testing capacity in the DRC. Only 10% of suspected cases in 2023 were confirmed, leaving a significant blind spot for health officials. Additionally, South Kivu is a conflict-ridden region facing humanitarian challenges, creating fertile ground for further viral spread, as warned by the WHO.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Vaccines, treatment, and surveillance</h3>



<p>During the 2022 outbreak, wealthy nations offered smallpox vaccines, which also protect against mpox, to high-risk individuals. However, these vaccines have been slow to reach Africa, where the disease burden is highest. The DRC is currently considering regulatory approval for these vaccines, while the US and Japan have pledged limited doses. However, a large-scale vaccination campaign would require hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of doses.</p>



<p>The effectiveness of these vaccines against clade Ib remains unknown, although animal data is promising. Researchers are also conducting trials of tecovirimat, an antiviral drug thought to be effective against mpox. Results are expected within the next year.</p>



<p>To improve the situation, the WHO and CDC have helped equip the DRC with rapid diagnostic tools for mpox, particularly in rural areas. This, combined with the swift response from African health officials, offers some hope for controlling the outbreak before clade Ib spreads further.</p>



<p><em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-01167-5"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Source: Nature</a></em></p>


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<p>Inaccurate clocks, flipped reflections, changing faces: Is AI being made to do too much too soon?</p>


‘Next Stop Paris’: Trailer of first ever AI-generated movie gets trolled


<p>It is no surprise that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the field of arts has evolved from the generation of stills and graphics for adorning your online content into a full-fledged motion picture. </p>



<p>That&#8217;s right, the trailer for the first-ever fully AI-generated film dropped recently and, well, netizens think it does leave a lot to be desired.</p>



<p>Titled <em>Next Stop Paris</em>, the film, produced by TCLtv+ Studios, is positioned as a unique romantic tale blending professional voice acting and an original script with AI-generated imagery. </p>



<p>Set to debut this summer, the film follows Claire&#8217;s journey to Paris where she encounters a mysterious man aboard a train, setting into motion what&#8217;s dubbed as an &#8220;AI-powered love story.&#8221;</p>



<p>TCLtv+ Studios, a division of TCL, a Chinese conglomerate known for its consumer electronics like televisions and mobile phones, spearheads this project. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Next Stop Paris Trailer Digital" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KhQnnISdDIU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-stop-paris-trailer-reactions">Next Stop Paris &#8211; Trailer reactions</h3>



<p>People think that the film&#8217;s supposed synopsis doesn&#8217;t sound much different from a myriad other romantic films available on every streaming service imaginable.</p>



<p>Netizens have taken to X to critique the film&#8217;s seeming lack of originality, calling the storyline &#8220;<a href="https://twitter.com/white_lenka/status/1780258922147819799"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">mediocre</a>&#8221; and the characters &#8220;cold and withdrawn&#8221;.</p>



<p>However, script issues seem to be the least of this film&#8217;s worries. The AI-generated images themselves do not seem to have a lot going for them and are proof of the limitations currently present in the technology. </p>



<p>People have pointed out how the clock face shows out-of-order Roman numerals, the reflections are flipped. They also point out that the characters routinely change their appearance, have a distantly un-human quality to them, so much so that it triggered the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncanny_valley"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">uncanny valley effect</a> in some viewers.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">First AI-Generated Romance Film Looks Like Crap<a href="https://t.co/1lbIC1lCvS"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://t.co/1lbIC1lCvS</a> <a href="https://t.co/TMkukzC9lP"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">pic.twitter.com/TMkukzC9lP</a></p>&mdash; Kotaku (@Kotaku) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kotaku/status/1778878791701409892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-studio-s-response">The studio&#8217;s response</h3>



<p>Chris Regina, TCL&#8217;s chief content officer, spoke to <em><a href="https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/artificial-intelligence/first-ai-generated-rom-com-is-due-this-summer-and-the-trailer-puts-hallmark-channel-to-shame"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Tom&#8217;s Hardware</a></em> about the trailer of Next Stop Paris. &#8220;It is a first for a trailer and for an entertainment company. There is tremendous curiosity around AI. It&#8217;s a marketing differentiator,&#8221; he said.</p>



<p>Regina emphasized how consistency in the creation of people and characters is a rampant, omnipresent problem in AI, one that they are &#8220;working to solve along with film shot selection and performance.&#8221;</p>



<p>&#8220;The work is never finished until delivered, much like all film and TV production. With rapid technology advancement, we could easily keep shaping before the release, but we wanted to announce our AI studio and our entrance into original programming,&#8221; he said. &#8220;Releasing the trailer provided a glimpse into what we&#8217;ve been working on.&#8221;</p>



<p>While film producers, writers, and actors needn&#8217;t shake in their boots for the time being (especially after last year&#8217;s SAG-AFTRA strike and the following negotiations), what certainly cannot be denied is that the involvement of <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/poetry-camera-ai"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">AI</a> in film production is here to stay.</p>


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<p>How did a rare condition first discovered in Japan almost 70 years ago changed the life of a Belgian man? </p>


Belgian man with auto-brewery acquitted of drunk driving

A Belgian man proved that he has auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), which causes carbohydrates in his gut to be turned into alcohol


<p>A Belgian man had no idea that his gut could produce alcohol until he got arrested. </p>



<p>After consuming carbohydrates, he was arrested due to a high level of alcohol in his blood, showing signs of intoxication. The cause was not drinking; it was all due to auto-brewery syndrome. It is a rare disease that causes the gut to produce alcohol. </p>



<p>Auto-brewery syndrome is a highly unusual condition; only about 20 people in the world have been officially diagnosed with it.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-guilty-as-charged">Not guilty as charged</h3>



<p>The 40-year-old man was arrested after police pulled his vehicle over and administered a breathalyzer test. The test showed a reading of 0.91 milligrams of alcohol per liter. He was arrested again a month later when his breathalyzer reading showed 0.71 milligrams. </p>



<p>However, the charges against him were dismissed when he proved that he had auto-brewery syndrome. His lawyer, Anse Ghesquiere, also confirmed this and added that the number of ABS cases in the world is underestimated.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sugar can make you feel drunk?</h3>



<p>Auto-brewery syndrome, also known as gut fermentation syndrome, is a rare medical condition where ethanol, the type of alcohol found in beverages, is produced within the body. This happens as a result of fermentation by fungi or bacteria that can be found in the gastrointestinal system or even the urinary system. </p>



<p>Individuals with auto-brewery syndrome often experience symptoms typically associated with alcohol intoxication, such as impaired coordination or slurred speech. Here, a diet rich in sugars and carbohydrates is the one to blame. It serves as fuel for the microorganisms responsible for ethanol production within their bodies.</p>



<p>The syndrome occurs more in people with co-morbidities like diabetes, obesity, and Crohn&#8217;s disease but can also happen in healthy individuals. Also, it has been diagnosed in both males and females, as well as in children.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-this-rare-condition-be-cured">Can this rare condition be cured?</h3>



<p>According to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513346/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">the data</a>, its treatment includes dietary carbohydrate control, antifungal or antibiotic therapy, general antibiotic avoidance, and probiotics. Most patients can resume a normal <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/health/fatty-foods-before-surgery-may-hinder-memory-and-cognitive-function"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">diet</a> and lifestyle after one treatment. </p>



<p>However, the syndrome can have a profound effect on patients and families, as it gets mistaken for alcohol consumption, which can cause both social and legal issues.</p>



<p>The first such cases were reported in <a href="https://vdocuments.net/intragastrointestinal-alcohol-fermentation-syndrome-report-of-two-.html?page=1"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Japan</a> as early as the 1950s. There were certain assumptions that the Japanese population is predisposed to it.  For example, genetic variation leads to reduced ability of the liver to break down ethanol.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What can be done?</h3>



<p>According to <a href="https://bmjopengastro.bmj.com/content/6/1/e000325"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">a study</a> published in 2019, the earliest symptoms may be mood changes, delirium, and brain fog. In such cases, a multidisciplinary approach with early psychiatrist involvement is suggested. “Any patient denying alcohol ingestion with elevated blood alcohol levels or positive breathalyzer results should be investigated,” the study concluded.</p>


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<p>The 3D printed wind turbine can help save time and energy spent on transportation of components since it can be printed on-site. </p>


New US method to 3D-print massive recyclable wind turbine blades on-site

Stock photo: Wind turbine blades waiting to be transported at the port.


<p>Researchers at Virginia Tech&#8217;s College of Engineering have turned to 3D printing with recyclable material to give wind turbine blades a much-needed sustainable boost. <br><br>The effort required the collaboration of multidisciplinary teams consisting of researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and TPI Composites, an Arizona-headquartered company that has been building composite blades for over two decades. <br><br>Researchers have created &#8220;novel 3D printing methods and new recyclable materials to improve the environmental footprint of wind turbine blade production,&#8221; read a university press release from last week.  </p>



<p>According to the US Geological Survey, an average wind turbine working for just 46 minutes can generate sufficient energy to power an American household for an entire month. <br><br>The technology has already surpassed hydroelectric power stations as the country&#8217;s largest producer of renewable energy. </p>



<p>Although <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/this-new-recyclable-wind-turbine-is-the-worlds-first-to-use-elium-resin"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">wind turbines</a> generate carbon-free energy, the technology is far from green. Wind turbine blades are made from non-recyclable material, resulting in large quantities of waste at the end of their lifetime. <br><br>Moreover, current production methods require turbine components to be manufactured at locations far away from the installation site and fossil-fuel-powered transport before they can be brought together to begin generating clean, green energy. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How can 3D printing help?&nbsp;</h3>



<p>3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is poised to transform various industries by enabling the design and printing of difficult-to-manufacture products. <br><br>Interesting Engineering has previously reported on how this technology is used to make components for space rockets or even housing units in record time. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/3D-printer.jpg?w=1920" alt="Virginia Tech researchers with the 3D printer that can print wind turbine blades. " class="wp-image-60744" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/3D-printer.jpg 1920w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/3D-printer.jpg?resize=300,169 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/3D-printer.jpg?resize=768,432 768w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/3D-printer.jpg?resize=1536,864 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Virginia Tech researchers with the 3D printer capable of printing massive wind turbine blades. </figcaption></figure>



<p>As part of the Department of Energy&#8217;s initiative to make renewable energy production more sustainable, the researchers at the Design, Research, and Education for Additive Manufacturing Systems (DREAMS) laboratory developed a new approach to 3D printing and computational design for making turbine blades using high-strength thermoplastic material.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The new approach allows the printing of objects that are larger than the printer itself. More importantly, the printing can be carried out closer to installation sites, reducing the time and energy spent transporting components from large production facilities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Under the guidance of Chris Williams, a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the team also used design optimization techniques to improve the strength and efficiency of the printed material.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WT-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60745" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WT-1.jpg 1920w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WT-1.jpg?resize=300,169 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WT-1.jpg?resize=768,432 768w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WT-1.jpg?resize=1536,864 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Representational stock image of wind turbines that do not just generate green energy but are also green in their production. Image credit: <a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/pespiero?mediatype=photography"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">pespiero/iStock</a></figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-recyclable-polymer">The recyclable polymer</h3>



<p>Equipment manufacturers like <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/siemens-makes-worlds-first-recyclable-wind-turbine-blade"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Siemens</a> have begun using recyclable components in their blade production processes to make wind turbines more sustainable. Researchers at Virginia Tech, however, have gone a step ahead and used a novel material that is wholly recyclable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>&#8220;So if the blades get damaged or reach their end of life, we can break them down, reprocess them, and 3D print them again into new blades,&#8221; said Michael Bortner, a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, in a press release. <br><br>The team&#8217;s novel polymer composite material has the properties of glass fiber-reinforced composites but is also recyclable. </p>



<p>The group is working with NREL and TPI to explore how the technology can be translated into real-world applications and make it possible to 3D print wind turbine blades in the US. The university&#8217;s Wind Stability Tunnel will also aid in taking aeroacoustic measurements of the turbine blades. </p>



<p>The collaborations are not just meant to improve the sustainability of wind turbine technology. &#8220;We need to start identifying more practical and less expensive ways to harness renewable energy resources. By identifying technologies to reduce energy costs, those cost savings will eventually trickle down to the average consumer,&#8221; Bortner added in the <a href="https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/04/wind-turbine-blades-get-a-sustainable-upgrade.html"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">press release</a>.&nbsp;</p>


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<p>The Alia-250, inspired by the Arctic tern, boasts a 50-foot wingspan and an in-house-developed electric propulsion system powered by high-density lithium batteries.</p>


Watch: Beta achieves first piloted eVTOL cruise in Alia-250

Beta Technologies Alia-250 performs a hover test


<p></p>



<p>Vermont-based <a href="https://www.beta.team/aircraft/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Beta Technologies</a> has solidified its position as a frontrunner in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (<a href="https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/chinas-cybertruck-like-6-wheeler-land-evtol-launcher-plans-2025-debut"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">eVTOL</a>) industry by achieving a historic milestone: the first successful transition from vertical hover to airplane-like cruise flight with a pilot on board. This breakthrough, documented in a video released by the company, underscores Beta&#8217;s commitment to developing practical and commercially viable eVTOL solutions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-on-early-success">Building on early success</h3>



<p>Beta&#8217;s journey to this achievement began in 2020 when it emerged as a leader in the eVTOL space, known for its focus on real-world testing and development rather than mere concepts and renderings. This dedication to tangible progress was recognized in 2021 when Beta secured the second spot on the Advanced Air Mobility Reality Index (AAM RI). </p>



<p>This prestigious ranking was largely due to Beta&#8217;s receipt of the first-ever military airworthiness approval for manned <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/doroni-h1-x-flying-car-debut-2025"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">electric aircraft flight.</a> This vote of confidence from the US Air Force allowed Beta to take a significant step forward, delivering the Alia platform (in its conventional takeoff and landing, or CTOL, form) to Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="WAYPOINT: Transition" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N1N2BFLY4cA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A pioneering transition</h3>



<p>Now, Beta has taken another groundbreaking step by accomplishing a complete transition from VTOL hover to wing-borne cruise flight, followed by a successful return to hover for landing – all with a pilot at the helm. This feat marks a first in the eVTOL industry, solidifying Beta&#8217;s position as a pioneer in the field. Beta test pilot Nate Moyer bravely took control of the Alia-250 at Plattsburgh International Airport in New York, guiding the aircraft skyward using its four horizontal electric propellers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Once at a sufficient altitude, the rear propeller kicked in, propelling the aircraft forward and allowing the wing to generate lift. As the speed increased, the wing-top propellers transitioned to a stopped position, enabling a brief period of cruise flight. The Alia-250 then executed a smooth turnaround, with the four horizontal propellers restarting to facilitate a controlled descent back to the landing strip. Finally, the aircraft performed a mid-air hover before gently descending for a successful touchdown.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A critical step for eVTOL development</h3>



<p><em>Aviation International News</em> states this transition maneuver is a critical element in developing any functional eVTOL aircraft. While other major players in the eVTOL space, such as <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/joby-grabs-dubai-deal-to-fly-by-2026"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Joby</a> and <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/archers-midnight-aircraft-tests-faa"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Archer</a>, have conducted unmanned remote-operated transitions or piloted tests, they have yet to achieve this feat with a pilot onboard. Joby, another leader in the AAM RI rankings alongside Beta, garnered attention for a manned flight over a New York City heliport last November. Still, the aircraft remained in hover mode throughout the flight, highlighting the significance of Beta&#8217;s accomplishment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Designed for efficiency and range</h3>



<p>The Alia-250, inspired by the Arctic tern, boasts a 50-foot wingspan and an in-house-developed electric propulsion system powered by high-density lithium batteries. Beta estimates the aircraft to have a range of 250 miles (402 kilometers) and a top speed of 138 miles per hour (222 kilometers per hour). Beta targets FAA-type certification for the Alia-250 in 2026, aiming to offer five-passenger air taxi and cargo variants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recognizing the importance of a robust charging infrastructure, Beta has also developed the Charge Cube, a modular charging system equipped with a 50-foot cable that can refuel an Alia-250 in as little as 50 minutes using 350 kW of power.</p>


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<p>To determine the time of the magnetic field&#8217;s formation, the researchers examined ancient iron-containing rocks from Isua, Greenland. </p>


Scientists uncover 3.7-billion-year-old record of Earth&#8217;s magnetic field

Representational image of Earth's magnetic field.


<p>Researchers at the University of Oxford and MIT have discovered a record of the Earth&#8217;s magnetic field dating back 3.7 billion years. </p>



<p>There has been an ongoing debate regarding the origin of the planet’s magnetic field, which protects its inhabitants from the relentless bombardment of charged particles emitted by the Sun.</p>



<p>Without the protective shield, charged particles or solar wind would have stripped away the Earth&#8217;s atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To determine the time of the magnetic field&#8217;s formation, the researchers examined ancient iron-containing rocks from Isua, Greenland.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3152" height="2502" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg?w=1361" alt="" class="wp-image-60812" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg 3152w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg?resize=300,238 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg?resize=768,610 768w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg?resize=1361,1080 1361w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg?resize=1536,1219 1536w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_3155.jpg?resize=2048,1626 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 3152px) 100vw, 3152px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Isua Supracrustal Belt is gradually emerging from the Greenland ice sheet, slowly revealing some of the oldest and best-preserved rocks found anywhere on Earth. <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1alvO0QLhVxEbIWJHOO3K60H2sDq3aii7/edit"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Claire Nichols</a>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-evidence-of-magnetic-field-s-origin">Finding evidence of magnetic field&#8217;s origin</h3>



<p>Rebuilding the Earth&#8217;s magnetic field so far back in time has been challenging because various geological processes typically alter the preserved signals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Interestingly, the Isua Supracrustal Belt has some exceptions. It is based on a strong continental crust that shields the rocks from intense tectonic activity and deformation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These rocks found here hold secrets about its strength and stability. This is because <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/3000-year-old-bricks-reveal-strange-events-in-earths-magnetic-field"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">iron particles</a> can act as tiny magnets, preserving the intensity of the magnetic field during the crystallization process.</p>



<p>As per the press release, the rocks dating back 3.7 billion years ago had a &#8220;magnetic field strength of at least 15 microtesla.&#8221; Interestingly, this intensity is “comparable” to today&#8217;s, which is 30 microtesla.</p>



<p>This discovery establishes the earliest estimate of the intensity of the Earth&#8217;s magnetic field.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Extracting reliable records from rocks this old is extremely challenging, and it was really exciting to see primary magnetic signals begin to emerge when we analyzed these samples in the lab,&#8221; said Claire Nichols, lead researcher from the University of Oxford. &#8220;This is a really important step forward as we try and determine the role of the ancient magnetic field when life on Earth was first emerging.&#8221;</p>



<p>&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="4416" height="2571" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg?w=1855" alt="" class="wp-image-60814" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg 4416w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg?resize=300,175 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg?resize=768,447 768w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg?resize=1855,1080 1855w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg?resize=1536,894 1536w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_4293.jpg?resize=2048,1192 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 4416px) 100vw, 4416px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Co-author Athena Eyster standing in front of a large exposure of banded iron formation, the iron rich deposit from which the signals were extracted. <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1alvO0QLhVxEbIWJHOO3K60H2sDq3aii7/edit"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Claire Nichols</a> <br></figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-may-have-protected-early-life-forms">It may have protected early life forms</h3>



<p>The findings indicate that the Earth&#8217;s magnetic field has stayed relatively stable through billions of years. This stability played an important role in the emergence and evolution of life on our planet.</p>



<p>The research also indicates that the solar wind was likely much more powerful in ancient times. Over time, the strengthening of the Earth&#8217;s magnetic field may have protected the surface from the solar wind.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As a result, early life forms would have been able to leave the safety of oceans and migrate to the surface.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the research suggests that it may have influenced the development of our atmosphere. </p>



<p>It is driven by the solidification of its liquid iron core. However, the planet&#8217;s core is estimated to have begun hardening just one billion years ago, implying that different processes existed before this point.</p>



<p>“A better understanding of the ancient strength and variability of Earth’s magnetic field will help us to determine whether planetary magnetic fields are critical for hosting life on a planetary surface and their role in atmospheric evolution,” the press release mentioned. </p>



<p>The findings have been published in the <em><a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BO1nz2Oqe3645fxlWaOq3OcSblrY5s6ak2nNGYZ-2F2DDfTIY_7wxaBgfBGuubTWaHz5kwB7SIXhnipEGYBcPFad4BuU08-2FiNbDAyJURTT0evq0ffcTR4HNthXbbhpiSbsRzIT4WITI8k1b5G9OBu1I2S6iytgaD4UkslkSkE4qYxoYRyB7RmfVhKsqY-2B05Gr-2FQK-2BoNLY4Yn2sMFGQHEZaXobnD1Bv5K-2Fh8Yb-2FHkVhdl2bLpmhrdeSIZQgn5wOwgMFJmc4nBYycBGHMdikIGak-2FJZdanaEqSxF-2BWGVLXEEj90Xyva5PAblUGk-2BrOeF8C5QosK5LqIRVXz1rsIyKzEcVqM-2B1t9Lu2SWKrTSPh0ZtfqGTmvpX5DZjUbp8MF7nvy2oNzeEb7K5ijI4eSVClrMo6LwER0etF9nDm438GIKoZdujUdu"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Journal of Geophysical Research.</a></em></p>


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<p>Several US-based TikTokers are calling out the government for targeting TikTok. </p>


TikTok ban would cause businesses to &#8216;shrivel and die,&#8217; warn US users

US officials say the Chinese government can use TitTok to track Americans.


<p>TikTok, the popular short-video-sharing app with over 170 million users, could face a nationwide ban in the United States. <br><br>On April 23, the US Senate approved a new law that may finally ban TikTok.</p>



<p>As per a report by <em><a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/tiktok-divest-or-ban-bill"  rel="dofollow">Interesting Engineering</a></em>, the House of Representatives has already passed the bill.</p>



<p>Considering that US officials have long warned people against the Chinese-based social media app, the development may not be shocking to many. </p>



<p>However, this has become a major setback for content creators and small businesses dependent on TikTok for their income. They fear their careers and incomes could crumble if the app is removed. <br><br>Creators even argue that the new law infringes on their freedom of speech.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-selective-approach-and-fearmongering">Selective approach and ‘fearmongering’</h3>



<p>According to the creators, the US government is being hypocritical by targeting TikTok alone. <br><br>They point out that other tech companies like Meta and Google, which are also under data scrutiny, are given a free pass by the government.</p>



<p>Leo LonDini, a TikTok creator with nine million followers, questions why Chinese stakes in major companies like Epic Games, Spotify, and even Tesla are not receiving the same level of scrutiny.</p>



<p>“And if our government could actually prove that Chinese companies are spying on us, well, then we have a decision to make, don’t we? Either we accept the risk, or we get rid of the app,” LonDini said.</p>



<p>Notably, U.S. officials have not shared public proof that China&#8217;s government is actively manipulating TikTok. Right now, these concerns are mostly about what could happen.</p>



<p>Another creator named Brett Jansen calls the proposed ban &#8220;fearmongering,&#8221; implying the government is manipulating citizens. <br><br>She asks why the US government is not equally criticized for its widespread data collection and surveillance practices.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-economic-toll-is-high">The economic toll is high</h3>



<p>The ban is likely to significantly negatively impact the livelihood of many creators. For people like Ben Stanley, who depends on TikTok earnings due to health conditions preventing traditional work, the ban could mean a major setback to his financial stability and overall well-being.</p>



<p>Stanley makes artwork and uses TikTok to expand his business. According to him, TikTok’s algorithm has made him successful.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Should TikTok be banned, my business won’t be able to sustain itself because I don’t have the same kind of following anywhere else,” he said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This would cause a loss of his business, and his income would “shrivel and die,&#8221; leading to &#8220;a massive strain&#8221; on his health and that of his wife and son, he concluded.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">There’s a way out</h3>



<p>However, it must be noted that the Senate&#8217;s approval of the legislation does not mean an immediate ban on TikTok in the US.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As per the legislation, TikTok&#8217;s parent company, ByteDance, must sell the video-sharing app to a non-Chinese owner within nine months. Otherwise, TikTok could face a ban in the US. </p>



<p>Also, this is not the first time US lawmakers have tried to limit TikTok. In 2020, former President Donald Trump tried to ban the app, but his attempt was blocked in court.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What led to the decision?</h3>



<p>There is a growing fear among the US authorities that China could use the app to spy on Americans. The Senate has passed the legislation citing national security concerns over TikTok’s Chinese-owned parent company ByteDance. </p>



<p>Members of both the Democratic and Republican parties strongly supported the decision. President Joe Biden has already expressed his support for the bill and is expected to <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/biden-ready-to-sign-bill-that-could-ban-tiktok-in-us-trump-opposes"  rel="dofollow">sign</a> it into law.</p>



<p>The major concern of the Senate is that the Chinese government could force TikTok to hand over information about its US-based users. Later, the Chinese government can use this information to track Americans or even interfere in US elections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">TikTok’s stand</h3>



<p>TikTok is strongly against the ban. The company calls the bill unfair and says it would violate the right to free speech enjoyed by millions of Americans who use the app.</p>



<p>TikTok&#8217;s head of policy in the Americas, Michael Beckerman, stated the company will challenge the ban in court.</p>


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<p>This planetary nebula is located 3,400 light-years away from the Earth.</p>


NASA shares stunning nebula image on Hubble&#8217;s 34th anniversary

Snapshot of the Little Dumbbell Nebula. Like an inflating balloon, the lobes are expanding into space from a dying star seen as a white dot in the center. Blistering ultraviolet radiation from the super-hot star is causing the gases to glow. The red color is from nitrogen, and blue is from oxygen.


<p>For 34 years, the legendary Hubble Space Telescope has been our window to the wonders of the universe.</p>



<p>On April 24, 1990, the <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/hubble-captures-a-stunning-lineup-of-galaxies-in-space"  rel="dofollow">Hubble Space Telescope</a> was launched, ushering in a new age in astronomy research of our solar system, Milky Way, and beyond.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To celebrate its 34th anniversary, NASA has shared a stunning image of the Little Dumbbell Nebula — a planetary nebula located 3,400 light-years away from the Earth. It is named after its two-lobed structure comprising of mottled, glowing gases.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The nebula, also known as Messier 76, M76, or NGC 650/651, is visible in the direction of the constellation Perseus.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-various-features-of-the-nebula">The various features of the nebula </h3>



<p>M76 is categorized as a planetary nebula, although unrelated to a planet. When astronomers in the 1700s first observed these objects using telescopes, they noticed that the entities had a round, planet-like appearance. </p>



<p>However, they weren&#8217;t planets at all. Instead, they were huge clouds of gas and dust ejected by dying stars. The star expands and expels its outer layers of gas into space as it reaches the end of its life. </p>



<p>The Hubble new image provides new insights about M76. NASA describes, “M76 is composed of a ring, seen edge-on as the central bar structure, and two lobes on either opening of the ring.” The dying breath of a red giant star carved its complex ring structure. </p>



<p>“Before the star burned out, it ejected the ring of gas and dust. The ring was probably sculpted by the effects of the star that once had a binary companion star,&#8221; NASA added. &#8220;This sloughed off material created a thick disk of dust and gas along the plane of the companion&#8217;s orbit,” the space agency explained further. </p>



<p>Within this celestial masterpiece, a white dwarf, one of the hottest star remnants known, blazes at 250,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is twenty-four times that of the Sun&#8217;s surface.</p>



<p>The image also portrays hurricane-like stellar winds blasting through space at two million kilometers per hour. These outflows clash with gasses emitted during the star&#8217;s early phases, lighting the nebula in brilliant red (nitrogen) and blue (oxygen).&nbsp;</p>



<p>This nebula is expected to disappear in some 15,000 years from now.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Hubble&#039;s 34th Anniversary Image: The Little Dumbbell Nebula" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6vo9tFsUn8s?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-has-made-1-6-million-observations-so-far">Hubble has made 1.6 million observations so far</h3>



<p>Over its three decades of operation, Hubble’s valuable discoveries have helped scientists to expand their understanding of the cosmos. </p>



<p>Hubble&#8217;s exceptional ultraviolet-light capabilities have allowed the telescope to make 1.6 million observations of about 53,000 celestial objects over three decades.</p>



<p>The astronomical data archive—dubbed the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, Maryland—stores 184 terabytes of processed Hubble data. </p>



<p>Astronomers worldwide can use this vast pool of science-ready data to make discoveries and expand their understanding of the vast universe.  Since 1990, Hubble&#8217;s sharp observations have resulted in the publication of almost 44,000 research papers.  </p>



<p>“The space telescope is the most scientifically productive space astrophysics mission in NASA history. The demand for using Hubble is so high it is currently oversubscribed by a factor of six-to-one,” NASA <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/missions/hubble/hubble-celebrates-34th-anniversary-with-little-dumbbell-nebula/"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">press release</a> noted.  </p>



<p>The legendary Hubble telescope is credited with numerous remarkable discoveries, including supermassive black holes, <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/water-vapor-small-exoplanets-hubble"  rel="dofollow">exoplanet atmospheres</a>, gravitational lensing by dark matter, and distant star systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


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<p>The US Navy unveils a bold plan to convert oil rigs into mobile missile defense and resupply bases in the Pacific. </p>


From oil rig to ocean fortress: US Navy to repurpose oil rigs for mobile defense

Deepsea Delta semi-submersible drilling rig in the North Sea 


<p></p>



<p>The US Navy is charting a bold course with its latest initiative, the Mobile Defense/Depot Platform (MODEP) concept. Unveiled at the recent Sea Air Space 2024 expo, this project proposes a novel solution to address evolving security challenges in the Pacific: repurposing surplus oil rigs into mobile <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/military/israel-rampage-missile-against-iran"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">missile defense</a> and resupply bases.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-modep-concept">The MODEP concept</h3>



<p>Developed by Gibbs &amp; Cox, a Leidos company, the MODEP concept envisions transforming existing oil rigs into large, self-sufficient island bases. These mobile platforms would be strategically positioned at sea and operate independently for extended periods of up to 12 months.</p>



<p>The converted rigs boast impressive firepower potential. They can be equipped with either 512 vertical launch system (VLS) cells or 100 large missile launchers, a significant leap compared to the capacity of an <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/military/us-navy-certifies-virtualized-aegis-combat-system-on-its-first-destroyer"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Arleigh Burke-class</a> destroyer (approximately five times greater). This enhanced capability translates to a more robust US air defense posture in the Pacific.</p>



<p>But the MODEP concept extends beyond pure defense. The platforms can also serve as Afloat Forward Staging Bases, providing logistical support for US Navy surface combatants and nuclear submarines. This dual functionality offers a strategic advantage, enhancing offensive and defensive capabilities. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Mobile Defense/Depot Platform (MODEP) Concept at Sea Air Space 2024" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hvXU7Ow9OwY?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Strategic advantages and cost-effectiveness</h3>



<p>The US Navy sees these mobile platforms as a game-changer. Heruningtyas Desi Purnamasari, a Navy official, emphasizes the strategic importance of the MODEP concept. He highlights the potential for &#8220;a substantial reduction in risks and costs associated with land-based defense systems.&#8221;</p>



<p>Another key selling point is the project&#8217;s cost-effectiveness. Converting existing oil rigs is estimated to cost a mere 10% of the price tag associated with building a brand-new <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/aerojets-zeus-2-success-boosts-hypersonic-and-ballistic-missile-systems"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">Ballistic Missile Defense</a> (BMD) system. This significant cost savings makes the MODEP concept an attractive proposition in an era of tightening defense budgets.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feasibility and potential challenges</h3>



<p>Despite its promise, the MODEP concept has its critics. Experts have raised concerns about such large-scale floating bases&#8217; feasibility and potential drawbacks.</p>



<p>A 2018 Jose Delgado and Eviya Vitola study focused on the political and security challenges associated with semi-permanent offshore military installations. Their analysis identified potential vulnerabilities to missile attacks, high operational costs, and the relative ineffectiveness of these bases compared to conventional defense strategies.</p>



<p>However, more recent research by Sam Tangredi of the Foreign Policy Research Institute presents a counter-argument. Tangredi emphasizes the strategic benefits of sea bases, including improved joint command capabilities and rapid strike potential. He acknowledges the evolving nature of anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) threats but questions whether air and missile defense advancements can adequately mitigate the risks associated with sea bases.</p>



<p>Ultimately, whether the MODEP concept represents a viable solution for the US Navy remains open for debate. While the project can potentially revolutionize naval defense strategies, its long-term effectiveness hinges on overcoming logistical and security challenges.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A shift in military strategy</h3>



<p>The MODEP concept reflects a broader shift in US military strategy. As the geopolitical landscape evolves and technological advancements reshape warfare, the Navy is actively seeking to bridge the gap between traditional land-based defense systems and the vast capabilities offered by the open seas. The potential success of the MODEP project could pave the way for a new era of maritime-centric defense strategies.</p>



<p><em><a rel="nofollow" href="Naval News">Source: Naval News</a></em></p>


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<p>The quadruped robot dog is armed with the company&#8217;s ARC Flamethrower and is now available for $9,420.</p>


‘World’s 1st’ flamethrower robot dog gets remote control and LiDAR

Screenshot: Flamethrower-wielding Thermonator robot dog can blaze up to 30 feet. 


<p>A flame-throwing robot dog that can shoot blazes up to 30 feet (9 meters) is up for sale in the United States.</p>



<p>Throwflame, the manufacturer, claims the robot dog is the first of its kind and has a battery that can last for an hour.</p>



<p>The quadruped robot dog is armed with the company&#8217;s ARC Flamethrower and is available for $9,420.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thermonator-operations-and-control">Thermonator: Operations and control</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/flth-ezgif.com-resize.png?w=1920" alt="The Flamethrower Robot Dog." class="wp-image-60702" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/flth-ezgif.com-resize.png 1920w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/flth-ezgif.com-resize.png?resize=300,169 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/flth-ezgif.com-resize.png?resize=768,432 768w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/flth-ezgif.com-resize.png?resize=1536,864 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Flamethrower Robot Dog.</figcaption></figure>



<p>The quadruped robot dog is now operated by a first-person view (FPV) controller, a concept that is increasingly gaining traction with the rise of drones.</p>



<p>A laser mounted on the flamethrower provides the aim to the flames, which have a range of 30 feet.</p>



<p>Another interesting feature of the robot dog is its use of Light Detection and Ranging (commonly known as LiDAR) to guide it.</p>



<p>LiDAR <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/what-is-lidar-technology-and-what-are-its-main-applications"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">utilizes</a> pulsed lasers to accurately and constantly measure distances to a given target or area. LiDAR sensors are light-based measurement and mapping tools incredibly useful in various sectors. </p>



<p>Per the company&#8217;s claims, it can also avoid obstacles and operate in remote areas.</p>



<p>The ARC Flamethrower, as per the description, is a compact all-electric flamethrower. &#8220;Ultra-modular and adaptable, the ARC can be configured in countless ways,&#8221; the company states.</p>



<p>The robot dog – also known as Thermonator – uses the ARC Flamethrower, giving it instant ARC ignition. It also has an extended battery life and a versatile mounting system, which gives the robot quadruped enhanced flexibility in operations.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="The Robot Dog With A Flamethrower | Thermonator" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rj9JSkSpRlM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thermonator-s-agricultural-commercial-amp-military-use">Thermonator&#8217;s agricultural, commercial &amp; military use</h3>



<p>Throwflame says all its products are designed for personal and commercial use, such as ground clearing or controlled agricultural burns, ice and snow melting, forest fire containment/ prevention, and film production.</p>



<p>In addition to the quadruped robot dog, the company <a href="https://throwflame.com/products/thermonator-robodog/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">offers</a> hand-held flamethrowers, flamethrower drone attachments, and other products.</p>



<p>However, with the growing use of UAVs and robot vehicles in military operations, the armed forces could soon adopt them as well.</p>



<p>Various US armed forces have recently conducted&nbsp;<a href="https://interestingengineering.com/military/us-forces-drill-with-ghost-drones-robot-dogs-to-sync-battle-signals"   rel="dofollow">training exercises</a>&nbsp;using drones, other robot dogs, and troops. Designed to make military units &#8220;more lethal and efficient,&#8221; the exercise was a useful testbed for future human and drone operations.</p>



<p>The exercise, called Project Convergence Capstone 4 (PC-C4), also included representatives from nations like the United Kingdom and Japan.</p>



<p>The training exercise also involved a mid-sized all-weather ground drone, the <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/next-generation-rifle-robot-dog"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">&#8220;robot dog</a>.&#8221;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thermonator-the-war-dog">Thermonator: The war dog? </h2>



<p>This highly durable, agile ground drone can withstand various unstructured urban and natural environments. It is designed for defense, homeland security, and enterprise applications.</p>



<p>The promising results signal a possible integration of advanced tech into army units in the future.</p>



<p>The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has led to an increased usage of drones. Technology is challenging traditional warfare methods, and in the future, there will only be an upward rise in the number of drones deployed by armed forces across the globe.</p>



<p>Therefore, in the future, the Thermonator could be one of the top contenders among ground drones for possible military usage.</p>


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</ul>

<p>A single-story bungalow could take a few months to build, but this printer can complete the project in less than four days.</p>


World’s largest 3D printer can build a small house in 80 hours

Factory of the Future 1.0 (FoF 1.0) 3D printer


<p>The University of Maine has smashed its own world record by creating the largest polymer 3D printer, paving the way for the future of sustainable manufacturing.</p>



<p>In 2019, they unleashed the first record-breaking 3D printer that constructed a 600-square-foot house made of recyclable materials. </p>



<p>Built to meet a demand for more affordable housing, the state of Maine needs another 80,000 homes over the next six years with a shortage of manpower to make it happen.</p>



<p>The bigger and better Factory of the Future 1.0 (FoF 1.0) 3D printer is here to help its predecessor reach this goal of providing more for less<em>.</em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fof-1-0-3d-printer-will-build-affordable-housing">The FoF 1.0 3D printer will build affordable housing</h3>



<p>The university, with a longstanding relationship with the US government, wanted to demonstrate that a 3D printer could print a home with a lower carbon footprint &#8211; as the construction industry produces about 37% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the United Nations Environment Program.</p>



<p>The FoF 1.0 prints four times faster, which means that it can print a bio home in about 80 hours. A single-story bungalow, for example, could take a few months to build, but this printer can complete the project in less than four days.</p>



<p>The goal wasn’t to build a cheap house, but rather to build one that people wanted to live in, said Dr Habib Dagher, the Director of the Advanced Structures and Composites Center at the University of Maine.</p>



<p>Present for the official unveiling of the FoF 1.0 were representatives from the US Department of Defense, Energy, the Maine State Housing Authority, as well as other stakeholders who plan to put this Factory of the Future 1.0 3D printer to good use.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fof-1340_inline-2.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-60767" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fof-1340_inline-2.jpeg 1920w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fof-1340_inline-2.jpeg?resize=300,169 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fof-1340_inline-2.jpeg?resize=768,432 768w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fof-1340_inline-2.jpeg?resize=1536,864 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://umaine.edu/news/blog/2024/04/23/umaines-new-3d-printer-smashes-former-guinness-world-record-to-advance-the-next-generation-of-advanced-manufacturing/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">University of Maine</a></figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fof-1-0-the-future-of-manufacturing-and-defense">The FoF 1.0: The future of manufacturing and defense</h3>



<p>The thermoplastic polymer printer can print objects as large as 96 feet long by 32 feet wide by 18 feet high — consuming 500 pounds of material per hour. </p>



<p>Its applications range from industries to national security — meaning, if they need to build ships fast, they have the technology to do so. </p>



<p>Though, typically, it takes years to build military ships, in WWII, the US manufactured the Liberty ships in 42 days. These large-scale 3D printers could feasibly meet that speed and maybe surpass it if needed. </p>



<p>The applications of the 3D printer, however, are far-reaching.</p>



<p>“UMaine and the Advanced Structures and Composites Center possess the innovation, capacity, and workforce to support the future needs of the Department of Defense in advanced manufacturing,” said US Sen. Susan Collins. “This is a great day for our University, our State, and our Nation.”</p>



<p>Because the FoF 1.0 is so much more than a printer. It can switch functionalities between “additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, continuous tap layup, and <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/35-gram-hopcopter-revolutionizes-robotics-with-its-hops-and-flight"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">robotic arm operations</a>.” </p>



<p>It’s both a computer and a manufacturer that the Office of the Secretary of Defense and US Army Corps of Engineers helped to design and build.</p>



<p>The FoF 1.0 stands to revolutionize a variety of industries. That includes affordable housing, public works such as bridge construction, and ocean and wind energy. And it’s all recyclable.</p>



<p>“You can basically deconstruct it, grind it up if you wish, the 3D printed parts, and reprint with them, do it again,” Dr Dagher said.  </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fof-1-0-sits-at-the-center-of-a-new-research-center-in-maine">FoF 1.0 sits at the center of a new research center in Maine</h3>



<p>With two immensely powerful machines, the University of Maine can develop biobased, locally sourced feedstocks, print affordable homes, and meet national security demands quickly. </p>



<p>The University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy called it an intersection of engineering and computing that will “accelerate solutions that strengthen the state’s economy and communities.”</p>



<p>The FoF 1.0 <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/mit-3d-printer"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">3D printer</a> is only the beginning. Set to open this summer, the Green-Engineering and Material Factory of the Future (GEM) will break new ground as a 47,000 square foot manufacturing innovation center. </p>



<p>Creating sustainable manufacturing practices and filling a much-needed gap in the workforce is its objective. They intend to nurture the next generation of leaders through a sustainable model.</p>



<p>“The Maine College of Engineering and Computing is proud to be a strong partner in developing the Factory of the Future 1.0,” said <a href="https://umaine.edu/news/blog/2024/04/23/umaines-new-3d-printer-smashes-former-guinness-world-record-to-advance-the-next-generation-of-advanced-manufacturing/"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Giovanna Guidoboni, inaugural dean of MCEC.</a></p>


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</ul>

<p>The photomolecular effect could explain a long-standing discrepancy in climate science – the observed higher absorption of sunlight by clouds than conventional models predict.</p>


Science shocker: Light can vaporize water without heat, says MIT study

MIT researchers discover light-induced water evaporation, unveiling the photomolecular effect. Lab device shown measures this phenomenon with laser beams.


<p></p>



<p>For millennia, humans have observed and utilized evaporation, the process by which water transforms from a liquid to a vapor. From witnessing the sun&#8217;s dry morning fog to extracting salt from evaporated seawater, this fundamental process has been a constant presence. However, a recent groundbreaking discovery by MIT researchers challenges our traditional understanding of evaporation. Their findings reveal that light, not just heat, plays a crucial role in driving this phenomenon.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-triggered-evaporation">Light-triggered evaporation</h3>



<p>This research, published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2320844121"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">PNAS</a></em>, sheds light on a previously unknown mechanism – the photomolecular effect. The MIT team, led by Professor Gang Chen, demonstrated that light striking the water&#8217;s surface can directly liberate water molecules, causing them to evaporate into the air. This effect occurs independently of heat, upending our long-held belief that thermal energy is the sole driver of evaporation.</p>



<p>“I think this has a lot of applications,” Chen says. “We’re exploring all these different directions. And of course, it also affects the basic science, like the effects of clouds on climate, because clouds are the most uncertain aspect of climate models.”</p>



<p>The researchers meticulously conducted a series of experiments to validate this surprising phenomenon. They employed fourteen different tests and measurements, observing consistent evidence of light-induced evaporation across various conditions—notably, a key indicator involved measuring the air temperature above the water during evaporation under visible light. Instead of rising, the temperature plateaued, demonstrating that thermal energy wasn&#8217;t the cause.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="900" height="600" src="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_ba571d.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60771" srcset="https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_ba571d.png 900w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_ba571d.png?resize=300,200 300w, https://cms.interestingengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image_ba571d.png?resize=768,512 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A lab device designed to measure the “photomolecular effect,” using laser beams. <em>Credits: Bryce Vickmark</em>/<em>MIT</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Furthermore, the team observed variations in the evaporation rate based on the light&#8217;s angle, color, and polarization. These characteristics should be independent of heat-driven evaporation, yet the researchers documented these dependencies. For instance, the effect peaked at a 45-degree angle with green light, even though water minimally absorbs green wavelengths.</p>



<p>The researchers have proposed a theoretical explanation for the angle and polarization dependence. They suggest that light photons transfer sufficient force to water molecules at the surface, dislodging them from the liquid body. However, color dependence remains a mystery, requiring further investigation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Repercussions for climate science and beyond</h3>



<p>This discovery holds immense significance for various fields. Unaffiliated with the study, Professor Xiulin Ruan of Purdue University emphasizes its potential impact on understanding light-water interactions in clouds, fog, and natural water bodies, ultimately influencing <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/science/europe-fastest-warming-continent"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">weather and climate</a>. </p>



<p>The photomolecular effect could explain a long-standing discrepancy in climate science – the observed higher absorption of sunlight by clouds than conventional models predict. This discrepancy has been a subject of debate due to the complexity of cloud measurements. Chen suggests the newly discovered mechanism might account for this excess absorption, potentially improving cloud-related climate calculations.</p>



<p>“Those experiments are based on satellite data and flight data,“ Chen explains. “They fly an airplane on top of and below the clouds, and there are also data based on the ocean temperature and radiation balance. And they all conclude that there is more absorption by clouds than theory could calculate.&#8221;<br><br>&#8221; However, due to the complexity of clouds and the difficulties of making such measurements, researchers have been debating whether such discrepancies are real or not. And what we discovered suggests that hey, there’s another mechanism for cloud absorption, which was not accounted for, and this mechanism might explain the discrepancies,” Chen adds. </p>



<p>The team&#8217;s experiments with LEDs illuminating an artificial cloud chamber observed fog heating, contradicting expectations as water doesn&#8217;t absorb visible light thermally. The photomolecular effect offers a more plausible explanation for this observation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Potential applications and future directions</h3>



<p>Beyond its scientific significance, the photomolecular effect presents exciting practical possibilities. Companies have already approached the research team, envisioning applications in areas like syrup evaporation and paper drying. Solar <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/barcelona-drought-floating-desalination-plant"  target="_blank"  rel="dofollow">desalination systems</a> and industrial drying processes are prime candidates for harnessing this effect. Since drying consumes significant industrial energy, optimizing this process using light holds immense promise.</p>



<p>Professor Chen acknowledges the nascent stage of this discovery, highlighting the need for further exploration. The team recognizes the vast number of variables to consider, encompassing a deeper understanding of water and its potential application to other materials, both liquids and solids.</p>



<p>This research has garnered praise from the scientific community. Professor Shannon Yee of Georgia Tech applauds the work for introducing a new physical mechanism, prompting a reevaluation of our understanding of evaporation kinetics. Professor Janet Elliott of the University of Alberta commends the study&#8217;s meticulous approach and the potential for significant practical and scientific advancements.</p>


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<p>This discovery predates the previously established earliest occurrence of bioluminescence in animals by nearly 300 million years.</p>


Bioluminescence 1st emerged in marine invertebrates 540 million years ago

Bamboo octocoral displaying bioluminescence


<p>Scientists from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History have uncovered a key information about the origins of bioluminescence in animals. They have determined that this unique ability, which allows organisms to emit light through chemical reactions, emerged at least 540 million years ago in a group of marine invertebrates known as octocorals. </p>



<p>This discovery significantly predates the previously established earliest occurrence of bioluminescence in animals by nearly 300 million years. The findings provide valuable insights into the evolution of this remarkable trait and may offer clues as to why it evolved in the first place. </p>



<p>“Nobody quite knows why it first evolved in animals,” said Andrea Quattrini, the museum’s curator of corals and senior author of the study.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-origins-of-bioluminescence">The origins of bioluminescence</h3>



<p>To uncover the earliest origins of bioluminescence, the researchers delved into the evolutionary past of octocorals, a group of ancient animals known for frequently exhibiting this luminous trait. Octocorals include various creatures like soft corals, sea fans, and sea pens. Unlike hard corals, which create hard skeletons, octocorals form softer structures for shelter. Interestingly, octocorals usually emit light when they are disturbed, adding a layer of mystery to the exact purpose of their bioluminescent ability.</p>



<p>“We wanted to figure out the timing of the origin of bioluminescence, and octocorals are one of the oldest groups of animals on the planet known to bioluminesce,” lead author Danielle DeLeo said. “So, the question was, when did they develop this ability?”</p>



<p>“If we know these species of octocorals living today are bioluminescent, we can use statistics to infer whether their ancestors were highly probable to be bioluminescent or not,” Quattrini explained. “The more living species with the shared trait, the higher the probability that as you move back in time that those ancestors likely had that trait as well.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestor-of-octocorals-likely-possessed-bioluminescent-capabilities">Ancestor of octocorals likely possessed bioluminescent capabilities</h3>



<p>The researchers employed various statistical methods, all of which pointed to a significant finding: approximately 540 million years ago, the common ancestor of octocorals likely possessed bioluminescent capabilities. This discovery predates the previously recognized earliest instance of bioluminescence in animals by a staggering 273 million years, overturning previous assumptions.</p>



<p>DeLeo and Quattrini noted that the large number of octocoral species, along with their relatively frequent bioluminescence, indicates that this trait may have played a crucial role in the group&#8217;s evolutionary success. However, the exact purpose of bioluminescence in octocorals remains a puzzle. Nonetheless, the fact that this trait has persisted for such a long time underscores its importance in their communication and survival strategies.</p>



<p>Beyond unveiling the origins of bioluminescence, this study provides valuable evolutionary insights with implications for the conservation and management of octocorals today. These organisms face numerous threats, including climate change and human activities such as fishing, oil and gas extraction, spills, and increasingly, marine mineral mining.</p>



<p>The study was published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.2626"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B</em></a>.</p>


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<p>Adorned with vibrant hues, the poisonous moth stands out conspicuously, unlike other moth species.</p>


This love story has a toxic twist: Bella moths use poison to attract mates

Bella moths have an old and unique wing pattern symmetry that makes them easily distinguishable from their close relatives.


<p>Out of all the myriad ways that species in the animal kingdom use to attract mates—birds display brilliantly colored plumage, insects make music, bees do dances, glow worms use light, and the pufferfish goes as far as creating geometric circles in the seabed—none is truly as strange as the one displayed by the bella moth.</p>



<p>According to a recent study, the bella moth (<em>Utetheisa ornatrix</em>) has reportedly evolved to use the toxins of a particular plant they consume during caterpillarhood to not only safeguard themselves (and later their eggs) against predators but also attract potential mates.</p>



<p>The leaves and seeds of the rattlebox plant are laden with a particular kind of bitter-tasting toxin known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Widely shunned by the rest of the foragers, the rattlebox is the preferred food source of the bella moth. <br><br>Not only does this brightly colored moth have immunity against this toxin—which, mind you, is one of the leading causes of accidental poisoning-related deaths in cattle—it can actually metabolize and use it to achieve its own ends.</p>



<p>Bella moths are prevalent across large parts of eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, and they exhibit diurnal activity patterns. Unlike many other nocturnal species that rely on darkness for concealment from predators, bella moths deliberately flaunt their presence. <br><br>Adorned with vibrant hues like radiant pink, pearl, onyx, and sulfur yellow scales on their wings, they stand out conspicuously, easily catching the attention of birds and carnivorous insects from afar. Any predator that attempts to prey upon a bella moth soon realizes its error.</p>



<p>“Banana spiders will cut them out of their webs,” explains study co-author Andrei Sourakov. “When caught, they produce foaming liquid that tastes bad made almost entirely out of alkaloids.” He also points out how wolf spiders and birds, common moth predators, do everything possible to avoid this poisonous moth.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-bella-moths-use-poison-to-attract-mates">How bella moths use poison to attract mates</h3>



<p>When female bella moths are ready to mate, they emit a cloud of aerosolized alkaloids acquired from the plants they consume as caterpillars. Males, drawn to this scent, reach the female and engage in a brief yet intricate ritual. <br><br>During this ritual, they delicately touch the female&#8217;s head with two fluffy and retractable structures resembling dandelions. Each filament of these structures contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids.</p>



<p>If the female deems the male&#8217;s alkaloid supply sufficient in quantity and quality, they proceed to mate. After mating, the male leaves behind a spermatophore containing sperm and additional alkaloids. The female uses these compounds and alkaloids from her own reserves to imbue the resulting eggs with toxins.</p>



<p>Such biparental egg protection is uncommon among insects. Initially observed in bella moth adults in 1989, it represents the sole known instance of a male moth or butterfly investing chemical resources in its offspring.</p>



<p>This study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/abs/10.1073/pnas.2319726121"  target="_blank"  rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">PNAS</a>.</p>


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