Lengthy-distance area journey can wreak havoc on human well being. There’s radiation and microgravity to cope with, in addition to the psychological toll of isolation and confinement. Analysis on similar twin astronauts has additionally revealed a slew of genetic modifications that occur when an individual spends a yr in area.
That’s why some bioethicists are exploring the concept of radical therapies for future astronauts. As soon as we’ve discovered all of the well being impacts of area journey, they argue, we must always edit the genomes of astronauts forward of launch to supply them the very best safety. Some have even prompt this would possibly outcome within the creation of an all-new species: Homo spatialis.
If that is beginning to sound a bit like sci-fi, that’s as a result of it principally is, for now. However there are biotechnologies we will use to assist area vacationers now, too.
—Jessica Hamzelou
This story is from The Checkup, our weekly well being and biotech publication. Enroll to obtain it in your inbox each Thursday.
MIT Know-how Assessment Narrated: How generative AI might reinvent what it means to play
Open-world video video games are inhabited by huge crowds of computer-controlled characters. They make digital worlds really feel lived in and full.
After some time, nonetheless, the repetitive chitchat (or threats) of a passing stranger forces you to bump up in opposition to the reality: That is only a recreation.
It might not at all times be like that. Generative AI is opening the door to thoroughly new sorts of in-game interactions which can be open-ended, artistic, and surprising. Future AI-powered NPCs that don’t depend on a script might make video games and digital worlds deeply immersive.
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