Real-Life Inspiration for Science Fiction
“Write what you know.” The phrase seems
to be the mantra of every creative writing instructor of my college years. In a
classroom environment that rejected any genre fiction, I very rarely injected
any level of surrealism or fantasy into my stories. Instead, I learned how to
craft realistic human drama with clarity and precision.
My true passion has always been
speculative fiction. Stephen King, Ray Bradbury and H.G. Wells were the lights
of my youth. Today, I can use my instructors’ advice in two different ways. I
write what I know of human drama; and I pair my imagination with advancing
technologies that point to the future progress and demise of our species.
Age Reversal
Two years ago, Harvard scientists released
information on a study that reversed
aging in mice. The mice were genetically modified to lack certain
rejuvenating features. After being treated, the signs of aging began to
reverse. The downside is that this approach could serve as a catalyst for
cancer. Also, the study says that these effects in mice may not be mirrored in
humans.
Mind Controlled Technology
Three years ago, Pierpaolo Petruzziello
became the
first person in the world to make complex movements using a biomechanical hand.
After losing his hand and forearm in a car accident, the young man participated
in an experiment that proved mentally controlled robotic prosthetics to be a
realized technology.
Electrodes that were implanted in two
nerves of his remaining arm served as neural interfaces between Petruzziello’s
body and a robotic arm. Using intense focus, Petruzziello was able to
manipulate the robotic arm with his mind.
This year, a woman who was paralyzed for
15 years was able
to mentally control a bionic arm to serve herself a drink of coffee. This
technology involves a chip that is implanted into the brain. Currently,
patients are required to be plugged into a series of wires and electronics; but
scientists say that future technology will be wireless.
Enceladus
Who cares about ol’ lifeless Mars? Some
scientists are pushing for exploration of Enceladus,
an icy moon of Saturn and potential haven for life. Compared to Earth,
Enceladus is teeny tiny. It could fit inside the Gulf of Mexico with room to
spare.
However, the moon has an atmosphere and
water geysers that erupt from the surface and into space. (This is how Saturn’s
icy rings are formed.) Organic compounds, a subterranean ocean and geothermal
energy sources all suggest the tiny moon could be a breeding ground for living
things.
Submarine and Ocean Technology
Some of the most futuristic projects in
development are those that involve submarine and deep ocean technology. The
Water Discus underwater hotel is a project slated for construction in
Dubai. Guests will be able to sleep underwater, and there are number of
interesting safety components that will accompany the project.
Also in conception is a
solar-powered floating resort that will comfortably fit six people. It is a
combination of luxury yacht and hotel; but the design echoes space craft
designs of science fiction films.
Samantha
Gray is an expert in online education and a freelance writer. She wants to hear your feedback and ideas, too, at samanthagray024@gmail.com
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