Scientists and technological researchers get paid billions each year to produce technological advances like the new linear accelerator Stanford researchers recently unveiled. The device is small enough to rest on a fingertip and ten times more powerful than linear accelerators that are in use today.
The new linear accelerator showcased by Stanford flips the script entirely. Instead of using microwaves, it uses laser light and a prism to boost the speed of electrons and create more energy. The technology still has quite a ways to go before being put to practical use, but it could lead to a number of medical technology advancements that could save lives in the future.
Linear accelerators are largely used in the medical field to treat tumors and perform x-rays. The new accelerator will likely be used to create X-ray free-electron lasers and/or portable X-ray devices.
That sounds great and all, but where are my flying cars and hover-boards? I feel like lightsabers should’ve been invented by now. I’m not so sure our scientific priorities are in order.
What technological advancement are you looking forward to the most? (Don’t dare say the next iPhone or the Xbox One!)
Source – The Verge
