As we wrap up the year, it’s a great time to look back and appreciate the progress we’ve made in science. Despite some negative headlines, 2018 was filled with incredible scientific achievements. From space missions to breakthroughs in medicine, there’s a lot to celebrate. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of science in 2018.
This year, robotics made impressive strides. Robots have become smarter, excelling in reading and solving complex tests. Boston Dynamics continued to amaze us with robots that can run and jump, and new innovations allowed robots to interact with objects in a more human-like way. However, there was a sobering moment when a self-driving car in Arizona caused the first recorded fatality involving a fully automated system.
CRISPR technology, which allows scientists to edit genes, saw significant advancements. The Gladstone Institute found a way to turn skin cells into stem cells using CRISPR, and the University of Pennsylvania began clinical trials to modify T-cells in cancer patients. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh edited pig genomes to resist a costly virus. However, concerns arose about CRISPR’s precision and potential immune responses, especially after reports from Stanford University. In November, the birth of the first genetically engineered humans in China sparked ethical debates, emphasizing the need for responsible scientific practices.
2018 was a stellar year for space exploration. NASA launched the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite to find planets around other stars. The Mars InSight spacecraft landed successfully on Mars, and the Parker Solar Probe set off to study the Sun. Discoveries included water plumes on Jupiter’s moon Europa and organic molecules on Saturn’s moon Enceladus. Astronomers also observed matter falling into a black hole and discovered a super-Earth near Barnard’s star.
In physics, Harvard researchers developed a single lens that can focus all colors at once, potentially transforming lens technology. There were also breakthroughs in superconductors and organic photovoltaic cells. In biology, scientists mapped the fruit fly brain’s connectome, sequenced the wheat genome, and discovered a new life form in Nova Scotia. The Earth BioGenome Project aimed to sequence the genomes of all known species on Earth.
Medicine saw significant progress with a blood test capable of detecting multiple cancer types early and a new polio vaccine that doesn’t need refrigeration. However, research into vaping highlighted health risks associated with e-cigarettes.
There was some positive news regarding climate change: the ozone layer is recovering faster than expected. However, CO2 levels reached record highs, and the impacts of climate change are becoming more apparent. It’s crucial to take action, whether by starting a green initiative or promoting sustainable practices.
As we reflect on these scientific developments, let’s consider how we can contribute to a better future. Thank you for joining me on this journey through the science of 2018. I’m excited to see what 2019 will bring. If you’re eager to expand your science knowledge, check out Brilliant.org, a platform for learning through problem-solving. Happy New Year, and I hope to see you in the next exploration of science!
Engage in a hands-on robotics workshop where you’ll build and program a simple robot. This activity will help you understand the advancements in robotics technology and the challenges faced in creating autonomous systems. Discuss the ethical implications of robotics in society.
Participate in a debate on the ethical considerations of gene editing using CRISPR technology. You’ll research the potential benefits and risks, and present arguments for or against its use in humans. This will deepen your understanding of the scientific and moral complexities involved.
Join a simulation of a space mission where you’ll plan and execute a virtual exploration of a celestial body. This activity will enhance your knowledge of space exploration technologies and the scientific discoveries made in 2018. Work in teams to solve challenges faced by real space missions.
Create a project for a class fair showcasing recent innovations in physics and biology. You can choose to focus on new lens technology, superconductors, or the mapping of the fruit fly brain. Present your findings and explain their potential impact on future scientific research.
Develop a personal or community action plan to address climate change. Research current challenges and propose sustainable practices or initiatives. This activity will encourage you to think critically about environmental issues and how you can contribute to positive change.
As we reach the end of the year, it’s good to take time to look back and appreciate the fact that we’re still alive. This year’s news articles have been dominated by stories of incompetence, which might make it tempting to think that the world is going backwards. However, that’s not true. There have been numerous advances in the world of science, including a multitude of space missions, new life forms, and 3D printed organs. We have a lot to cover, so find a comfortable seat, grab a drink, and join me as we look at this year in science.
In 2018, humanity’s journey into the realm of robotics continued at a rapid pace. Robots have shown remarkable abilities, including excelling in reading tests and solving text-based capture tests in record time. Boston Dynamics has continued to develop robots that can run and jump, and there have been innovations that allow robots to interact with soft toys in a lifelike manner.
On a more serious note, this year saw the first recorded fatality caused by a fully automated system when a self-driving car tragically hit and killed a pedestrian in Arizona.
In the field of gene editing, CRISPR technology saw significant developments. Good news came from the Gladstone Institute, which discovered a method for turning skin cells into stem cells using CRISPR. The University of Pennsylvania announced the first clinical trials involving CRISPR to modify T-cells in cancer patients. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh edited the genomes of pigs to make them resistant to a virus that costs the pork industry billions annually.
However, there were also concerns. A report from Stanford University indicated that CRISPR gene edits in humans might trigger an immune response, limiting its potential applications. Additionally, a study suggested that CRISPR might not be as precise as previously thought, causing unintended changes to DNA.
In November, news emerged from China that the first genetically engineered humans using CRISPR were born, raising ethical concerns within the scientific community. This situation highlights the importance of responsible use of scientific advancements.
Moving on to space exploration, 2018 was a remarkable year for launching missions. NASA launched the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, designed to spot planets around other stars. The Mars InSight spacecraft successfully landed on Mars, and the Parker Solar Probe was launched to study the Sun.
We also made exciting discoveries in space. Evidence of water plumes was found on Jupiter’s moon Europa, and organic molecules were detected on Saturn’s moon Enceladus. Astronomers reported the first detection of matter falling into a black hole and observed a super-Earth orbiting near Barnard’s star.
In the field of physics, researchers at Harvard reported the development of a single lens that can focus all colors simultaneously, potentially revolutionizing lens technology. There were also advancements in superconductors and organic photovoltaic cells.
In biology, scientists mapped the complete connectome of a fruit fly’s brain, sequenced the wheat genome, and discovered a new form of life in Nova Scotia. The Earth BioGenome Project was launched to sequence the genomes of all known species on Earth.
In medicine, significant advancements were made, including a blood test that can detect multiple types of cancer early and the development of a new polio vaccine that doesn’t require refrigeration. However, research into vaping revealed concerning health risks associated with e-cigarettes.
Regarding climate change, there was some good news: the hole in the ozone layer is recovering faster than expected. However, CO2 levels in the atmosphere reached record highs, and the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident.
As we reflect on these developments, it’s essential to consider actionable steps we can take to address climate change. Whether it’s starting a green team at work or encouraging sustainable practices, every effort counts.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the science of 2018. I look forward to what 2019 will bring. If you’re interested in enhancing your science knowledge, I recommend checking out Brilliant.org, a platform for learning through problem-solving. Happy New Year, and I hope to see you in the next video!
Robotics – The branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. – Robotics has revolutionized manufacturing by increasing precision and efficiency in production lines.
Gene – A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for the development of a specific trait or function in an organism. – Scientists have identified a gene that is responsible for resistance to certain diseases in plants.
Editing – The process of making changes to the genetic material of an organism to alter its characteristics. – Genetic editing has the potential to correct mutations that cause hereditary diseases.
CRISPR – A technology that allows for precise, directed changes to genomic DNA, often used for gene editing. – CRISPR has enabled researchers to study the effects of specific genetic mutations in laboratory settings.
Space – The vast, seemingly infinite expanse that exists beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, where celestial bodies are located. – The study of space has led to the discovery of numerous exoplanets orbiting distant stars.
Exploration – The act of traveling through an unfamiliar area in order to learn about it, often used in the context of scientific discovery. – Space exploration has provided valuable insights into the origins of our solar system.
Biology – The scientific study of life and living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, and evolution. – Advances in biology have led to a deeper understanding of the human genome and its implications for health.
Climate – The long-term patterns and averages of weather in a particular area, which can be influenced by natural and human factors. – Changes in climate have been linked to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
Change – The process through which something becomes different, often used in the context of environmental or biological transformations. – The change in global temperatures is a significant concern for scientists studying climate dynamics.
Medicine – The science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease, often involving the use of drugs or surgery. – Advances in medicine have significantly increased life expectancy and improved quality of life.
