As of July 2023, events in 2024 haven't occurred yet, so it's not possible to provide the top 10 international science and technology news of 2024. However, we can predict some areas that might generate significant news:
1. Artificial Intelligence
Advancements in AI ethics and governance
With the continued rapid development of AI, in 2024, there may be major international agreements or guidelines on AI ethics. For example, countries may collaborate to set standards for the use of AI in sensitive areas such as healthcare and criminal justice.
AI powered virtual assistants could reach new levels of sophistication, being able to handle complex multi domain tasks, such as simultaneously providing financial advice, medical diagnosis based on preliminary symptoms, and legal consultation for simple matters.
AI in drug discovery
Pharmaceutical companies around the world may increasingly rely on AI algorithms to accelerate the drug discovery process. In 2024, we could see announcements of new drugs developed with significant AI assistance, especially for diseases like Alzheimer's or certain types of cancer.
2. Space Exploration
Lunar exploration
Multiple countries and private space companies may be actively involved in lunar missions in 2024. There could be news about the discovery of new lunar resources, such as water ice in more accessible locations, which would have implications for future long term lunar habitation and space travel.
International cooperation on lunar bases may start to take shape. For example, countries might announce joint plans for building and operating modular lunar habitats for scientific research and resource utilization.
Mars sample return mission updates
If the Mars sample return mission progresses as planned, in 2024, there could be significant news about the spacecraft being prepared for the complex operation of collecting samples on Mars and then returning them to Earth. This would be a huge milestone in understanding the red planet's geology, potential for past life, and its evolution.
3. Quantum Computing
Breakthroughs in quantum supremacy
Tech giants and research institutions may claim to achieve new levels of quantum supremacy in 2024. This could involve demonstrating that a quantum computer can solve problems far more efficiently than classical computers in areas such as complex simulations for climate modeling or financial risk analysis.
There may be announcements of more practical applications of quantum computing, such as optimizing global supply chains or improving the security of communication networks through quantum encrypted channels.
4. Biotechnology
Gene editing in agriculture
With the development of gene editing technologies like CRISPR Cas9, in 2024, there could be news about the widespread adoption of gene edited crops in some countries. These crops may be more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses, potentially helping to address food security issues.
Advances in gene therapy for genetic diseases may lead to the approval of new treatments. For example, gene therapies for rare genetic disorders could enter larger scale clinical trials or even be approved for commercial use in certain regions.
5. Renewable Energy
Next generation solar technology
Scientists may announce breakthroughs in solar energy conversion efficiency in 2024. This could involve new materials or designs for solar cells that can capture and convert a greater percentage of sunlight into electricity, making solar power even more competitive with traditional energy sources.
International projects for large scale energy storage in conjunction with solar power plants could be in the news. For example, the development of advanced battery technologies or other storage methods to store excess solar energy for use during periods of low sunlight.
Fusion energy progress
Fusion research projects around the world may show significant progress in 2024. There could be announcements about achieving higher plasma confinement times or temperatures in experimental fusion reactors, bringing the dream of practical fusion energy closer to reality.
6. Cybersecurity
Response to quantum computing threats
As quantum computing has the potential to break existing encryption algorithms, in 2024, there may be news about the global effort to develop post quantum cryptography standards. This would involve governments, industries, and academia working together to ensure the security of digital communications and data in the era of quantum enabled attacks.
Cybersecurity companies may introduce new AI powered security solutions to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, such as ransomware attacks and nation state sponsored hacking campaigns.
7. Robotics
Advanced human robot collaboration in industry
In manufacturing and other industries, 2024 could see the implementation of more advanced human robot collaborative systems. These robots would be able to work alongside humans more safely and efficiently, adapting to different tasks and environments.
The development of service robots for healthcare and eldercare may also be in the news. For example, robots that can assist the elderly with daily activities like mobility, medication reminders, and basic healthcare monitoring.
8. Internet of Things (IoT)
smart city expansion
In 2024, cities around the world may announce large scale IoT based smart city projects. This could include the implementation of intelligent transportation systems that optimize traffic flow, energy efficient building management systems, and waste management solutions based on real time data collection and analysis.
There may be news about the security challenges and solutions for IoT devices as the number of connected devices continues to grow exponentially.
9. Transportation
Commercialization of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles
Companies may be closer to commercializing eVTOL vehicles in 2024. There could be news about the establishment of air taxi services in certain urban areas, revolutionizing short distance urban transportation.
Advances in battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs) may lead to longer range EVs and shorter charging times. This could further accelerate the global adoption of EVs and impact the automotive industry's transformation.
10. Materials Science
Discovery of new superconductors
Scientists may announce the discovery of new superconducting materials in 2024. These materials could have higher critical temperatures, making them more practical for applications such as loss less power transmission and high speed magnetic levitation trains.
Developments in lightweight and high strength materials for aerospace and automotive applications could also be in the news, potentially leading to more fuel efficient vehicles and lighter weight aircraft.
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