Science
From mathematics and AI to medicine and psychology, The Optimist Daily features the latest news on discoveries, technological advances, and breakthroughs in the world of science. Our Science section is here to engage and enlighten you.
Solar sail technologies to make future space missions more fuel-efficient
We’ve previously written about emerging sail technologies that hold the potential to make the maritime industry more sustainable and efficient. But a type of sail technology may soon also help humanity’s efforts to study outer space. NASA has recently announced that it plans to test new solar Read More...
Spray on road treatment cools cities and absorbs exhaust fumes
The heat island effect can make temperatures in cities ten degrees warmer than surrounding rural areas. This is not only uncomfortable for residents but can also have dangerous health impacts during heat waves. To address this issue, Pavement Technology Inc. has created a new treatment for roads Read More...
Can this robotic fish save the seas?
From food to fashion, consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z-ers, are leaning towards companies that practice green methods of manufacturing their products and transparency, which is a great thing—but it also leads to lots of greenwashing. How can we confirm that companies follow through Read More...
World’s first underwater farm is growing fruits and veggies once again
While floating farms are already an indication of how agriculture might look like in the future, underwater farms are just getting started. With that said, their prospects to increase food security across the world look promising. Just recently, the world’s first underwater farm started producing Read More...
16-year-old codes speech app to help his nonverbal sister communicate
Families of individuals who have conditions that make it difficult or impossible for them to communicate verbally can attest to the fact that going through diagnosis and treatment can be astronomically expensive. So, when the tools and apps that can facilitate communication for those with verbal Read More...
Aiming for economic growth? Invest in transportation, not tax cuts
Cities are working hard to kickstart a post-pandemic economic recovery, and a big part of this effort is retaining existing businesses and recruiting new ones. Economic development expert David Zipper writes for Bloomberg that while many cities focus on tax breaks to attract new companies, Read More...
Ancient carved bone demonstrates Neanderthals were capable of symbolic art
Researchers from the University of Göttingen have determined that the carved toe bone of a prehistoric deer is in fact one of the oldest works of art ever discovered. The small piece of art is significant not only for its age, but also because it indicates that Neanderthals, Homo neanderthalensis, Read More...
Spanish parents invent high-tech augmented reality glasses to help son see
Impaired vision makes it hard to do everyday activities, and although it can’t be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, or other standard treatments, one recent breakthrough may help those suffering from untreatable vision problems better perceive their surroundings. The helpful device was Read More...
MIT engineers invent human-like e-skin that could help monitor vitals
Scientists at MIT have invented a health-monitoring device that not only mimics the stretchability and sensitivity of human skin but is also sweat-proof, a property that solves a major problem that has prevented previous versions from functioning properly. While different types of electronic skins Read More...
Ready for summer travel? Here’s some things to keep in mind
As restrictions ease up and vaccination continues, perhaps vacationing has been on your mind. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s finally safe to go on that trip you put on hold during the pandemic. Public health and travel authorities are offering prospective travelers some tips to make driving, Read More...