Where’s my jetpack got to? And other sci-fi tech queries

New Scientist•Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 6:00:00 PM

In a thought-provoking piece, Annalee Newitz reflects on the gap between the futuristic technologies imagined in science fiction and our current reality. While we eagerly await innovations like jetpacks and significant social changes, Newitz highlights the slow pace of technological advancement and its implications for society. This discussion is important as it prompts us to consider not only what we have achieved but also what remains unfulfilled in our quest for a more advanced future.

— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Read Original

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Latest from New Scientist

New Scientist10 hours ago

Starting HRT in early menopause may reduce women's risk of Alzheimer's

PositiveScience

Recent research suggests that starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) within five years of menopause can significantly lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. This finding is crucial as it highlights the importance of timely intervention for women experiencing menopause, potentially offering a proactive approach to brain health. By understanding the optimal timing for HRT, women can make informed decisions that may protect their cognitive function as they age.

Read full article

via New Scientist

New Scientist15 hours ago

Stunning amber deposits hold insects from the time of the dinosaurs

PositiveScience

A remarkable discovery in a sand quarry in Ecuador has unveiled South America's first amber containing ancient bio-inclusions, including a spider's web and various insects like mosquitoes and beetles that thrived 112 million years ago. This find is significant as it provides a unique glimpse into the ecosystem of the time, enhancing our understanding of prehistoric life and the evolution of species.

Read full article

via New Scientist

New Scientist16 hours ago

Some viruses like to cheat – and that may be good for our health

PositiveScience

Recent research reveals that some viruses, particularly in influenza cases, can mutate to become 'cheats' that require assistance from other viruses to replicate. This intriguing finding suggests that these cheating viruses may actually outnumber their normal counterparts in about a third of cases, potentially leading to milder infections. This matters because understanding these dynamics could help us develop better strategies for managing viral infections and improving public health outcomes.

Read full article

via New Scientist

Latest from Science

The New York Times4 hours ago

RFK Jr.’s Vaccine Committee to Vote on Hepatitis B and Covid Shots

NeutralScience

RFK Jr.'s Vaccine Committee is set to vote on the inclusion of Hepatitis B and Covid vaccines in its recommendations. This decision is significant as it could influence public health policies and vaccination strategies, especially in the context of ongoing debates about vaccine safety and efficacy. The outcome may also impact how these vaccines are perceived by the public and their uptake in various communities.

Read full article

via The New York Times

The New York Times6 hours ago

Kennedy Announces Firing of Organ Transplant Group After Safety Problems

NegativeScience

In a significant move, Kennedy has announced the firing of the organ transplant group due to ongoing safety problems. This decision highlights serious concerns about patient safety and the quality of care in organ transplantation. It matters because it underscores the importance of accountability in healthcare, ensuring that organizations prioritize the well-being of patients above all else.

Read full article

via The New York Times

The New York Times7 hours ago

Climate Activists Argue 3 Executive Orders Violate Their Constitutional Rights

NegativeScience

Climate activists are raising concerns that three recent executive orders infringe upon their constitutional rights. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between government policies and environmental advocacy, emphasizing the need for a balance between regulation and the rights of citizens to protest and advocate for climate action. As these activists push back, the implications for future environmental legislation and civic engagement are significant.

Read full article

via The New York Times

Popular Science8 hours ago

Early humans reached Europe via an Ice Age land bridge from Turkey

PositiveScience

Recent research reveals that early humans migrated to Europe through a land bridge from Turkey during the Ice Age. This discovery is significant as it provides crucial insights into human history and migration patterns, shedding light on how our ancestors adapted to changing climates and environments.

Read full article

via Popular Science

Live Science9 hours ago

CDC committee votes to change measles vaccine guidance for young children

NegativeScience

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has voted to recommend against the use of the MMRV vaccine for children under four years old. This decision could limit options for parents seeking to protect their kids from measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. It's significant because it may impact vaccination rates and public health efforts aimed at preventing outbreaks of these diseases.

Read full article

via Live Science

The Guardian - Science9 hours ago

Teflon diet, garlic milk and zebra cows triumph at 2025 Ig Nobel prizes

PositiveScience

The recent Ig Nobel prizes have highlighted some truly innovative and unconventional research, including a study that suggests blending Teflon into food as a zero-calorie filler to help combat obesity. This creative approach could revolutionize how we think about calorie intake and hunger management, making it a significant development in public health. With obesity being a major global issue, such groundbreaking ideas are essential for finding effective solutions.

Read full article

via The Guardian - Science