China Media Group has released its top ten scientific news stories for 2024, featuring major accomplishments in space exploration, robotics, deep-sea research, and AI. Highlights include the return of moon samples, the debut of humanoid robots, and advancements in meteorological technology. These breakthroughs mark significant steps forward on the global scientific landscape, reflecting China’s growing influence in innovation.
On Monday, China Media Group (CMG) unveiled the top ten scientific breakthroughs emerging from China in 2024, showcasing a blend of innovation and ambition that makes even the hardiest of explorers take note. With a mix of astronomy, robotics, geology, and artificial intelligence, here’s a quick look at what 2024 has to offer.
First up, on June 24, the country fused several important events into one monumental meeting: the national sci-tech conference, the national science and technology award conference, plus the assemblies for both the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering. This unification is significant, as it aims to streamline discussions and foster cohesive advancements in China’s scientific agenda.
Hot on the heels of that meeting, the Chang’e-6 probe made headlines. On June 25, it successfully returned to Earth with samples from the far side of the moon — a place not many have ventured. This marks a major milestone in China’s ambitious space exploration program.
In a remarkable leap beneath the waves, China also commissioned the Meng Xiang, its first homegrown deep-ocean drilling vessel, on November 17. Capable of diving down to 11 kilometers, it opens up new frontiers in marine research, potentially unlocking mysteries hidden in the ocean depths.
Meanwhile, the University of Science and Technology of China recently published a groundbreaking study in Nature. Researchers there have observed an antiferromagnetic phase transition using a large quantum simulator, a feat that pushes the limits of what classical computers can achieve, showcasing the potential of ultracold atomic quantum simulators.
Meteorological advancements aren’t left behind either. On January 12, China’s Meteorological Administration introduced a cutting-edge supercomputing system, boasting 6.5 times the power of its predecessor, enhancing the country’s ability to predict weather patterns and climate changes more effectively.
And if you think humanoid robots are the stuff of science fiction, think again. The “Q Family” made its public debut in February, developed by researchers at the Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. These robots are stepping into our world, potentially revolutionizing how humans and machines interact.
Lunar research got a boost in April when China released a set of high-definition geologic atlases featuring the moon, the first of their kind with a scale of 1:2.5 million. These maps lay a foundational stone for future lunar explorations and studies, providing essential data for scientists.
October 11 saw China achieve another remarkable feat with the recovery of its first test satellite, the Shijian-19, which is both reusable and returnable. The satellite landed safely in the Gobi Desert, marking a significant step in China’s space capabilities.
The infrastructure scene isn’t sleeping either — on June 30, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link opened in Guangdong Province. This bridge is a significant milestone for connectivity, enhancing transport and economic access in southern China.
Lastly, researchers unveiled an innovative brain-on-a-chip system, dubbed MetaBOC. This platform allows a brain organoid to control robots autonomously for various tasks, making strides in brain-computer interface technology, pushing the envelope on what’s possible with artificial intelligence.
The scientific landscape in China for 2024 is marked by remarkable advancements ranging from lunar research to groundbreaking AI developments. Highlights include notable achievements in space exploration, robotics, and medical technology. This year promises not only to push the scientific boundaries but also strengthen China’s position on the global technological stage, paving the road for a future where innovation knows no bounds.
Original Source: news.cgtn.com