China makes ‘huge breakthrough’ in high-energy lasers

Plus: ChatGPT’s huge running cost is threatening OpenAI’s future ♦️ Despite six decades since the inception of the first ruby laser, the dream of deploying lasers as effective “death rays” has remained elusive. But now, Chinese scientists have unveiled a high-energy system with an innovative cooling system that drastcally boosts the range and potency of laser weaponry. Does this mean more efficient and compact laser systems will finally be deployed on the battlefield, in the air, and at sea? We have more on this story, and where it leaves the efforts of the United States, in [today's Must Read]( below. 🏭 Also today, Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are becoming crucial to manufacturing’s success. The [Control Engineering AI & Machine Learning eBook]( shows how AI drives efficiencies through greater insight and is becoming a crucial part in the manufacturing success. Good morning. I’m Tim, Newsletter Editor at IE. This is the Blueprint. Let’s start the week! VIDEO OF THE DAY [Is Nikola Tesla Overrated?]( How Hyperloop could outrun commercial planes There us fervent work to make Hyperloop a reality. Although progress has been slow so far, with Hyperloop One's passenger test speeds falling short of expectations, the vision remains. SUPPORT INTERESTING ENGINEERING Invest in science and engineering Insider access to exclusive content, featuring riveting stories that take you right to the heart of the action. Engage with our thriving online community, dive into captivating science discoveries, and stay informed with our enlightening weekly premium newsletters. With IE+, quality reporting is more than just news - and it is Ad-Free. [SUBSCRIBE]( Must Read [💥 China makes 'huge breakthrough' in high-energy lasers]( Chinese researchers, from the National University of Defence Technology in Hunan province, have achieved a significant leap in high-energy laser technology. By implementing a novel cooling system, their lasers can now continuously operate by efficiently eliminating waste heat, thus addressing a pivotal challenge in laser weapon advancement. This revolutionary system combines “advanced structures” with optimized gas flow to dissipate heat, simultaneously curtailing turbulence and maintaining the cleanliness of the laser's focusing mirrors. Although the U.S. has had its share of high-energy laser innovations, many were shelved due to size constraints or insufficient destructive power. Yuan's team, however, has designed a system that not only counters thermal challenges but also reduces the overall weight of the weapon. 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This sustainable process reduces carbon emissions and allows for the generation of clean energy. Researchers in Germany have engineered a new model for photoreactors that is more efficient at using solar power. [[Read More]( QUESTION OF THE DAY What type of engineering and technology news are you most interested in reading? [Defense]( [Space]( [Artificial Intelligence]( [Green Tech]( YESTERDAY'S RESULTS We asked you about how you response to an increase in foodborne pathogens, here’s how you responded. 36% Invent a vaccine 26% Be a fruit ninja 20% Embrace anarchy 18% I give up “This is a huge breakthrough in improving the performance of high-energy laser systems/ High-quality beams can be produced not only in the first second but also maintained indefinitely,” Yuan Shengfu, laser weapon scientist THE ACCESSORY CORNER [XREAL Air AR Glasses]( [$379]( [Cleaner Kit for AirPod]( [$23.99]( [Bellroy Tech Kit]( [$55]( [Gkrvb 50000 RPM Compressed Air Duster]( [$39.99]( AND ANOTHER THING - [Scientists find a way to turn methane into energy, materials]( - [White House seeks AI solutions for security issues]( - [Improved ICEs or all-in on EVs: which is better for the future?]( [premium] - [This lawyer uses AI in his practice for better faster results]( - Robot servers cannot replace human ones, restaurants say - Floating powerhouses: [Ideal solar farms for the world]( - [Using quantum computing to speed up optimization problems]( [premium] - [AI language models show political biases, new research shows]( - [Vampire child remains with padlock found in Polish cemetery]( - [Iranian supersonic cruise missiles now undergoing tests: state media]( Need help with advertising? 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