Latest news with #Hefei
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists edge closer to unleashing virtually unlimited power source — here's when it could finally go live
China's Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak fusion reactor aims to create five times the energy output to revolutionize global energy production. Located in Hefei, China, the "BEST" reactor uses a complex tokamak design. According to Sustainability Times' reporting on May 8, it utilizes a doughnut-shaped vessel that heats plasma to temperatures hotter than on the surface of the sun. It causes hydrogen isotopes to fuse and form helium, which releases massive amounts of energy. Nuclear fusion is preferable to nuclear fission because it creates less radioactive waste. Radioactive waste must be carefully managed and often requires ample storage space. Eliminating the need for waste management streamlines energy production. The process also releases minimal harmful gases into the atmosphere. Burning coal, natural gas, and oil creates dangerous carbon pollution. These heat the planet, destabilizing the climate, upsetting ecosystems, and furthering the spread of diseases. While other fusion projects, such as China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak and the United States' Smallest Possible ARC prototype fusion machine, have made strides, the BEST reactor is a major breakthrough. The United States' SPARC reactor only promises to double its energy output; BEST aims to quintuple its output. This high energy output could vastly improve the world's sustainability. With fusion, energy would be near-limitless and thus easily accessible and substantially more affordable. People could enjoy lower utility bills and consistent, reliable energy. The innovative reactor would help slow down climate change and lead to a cleaner, cooler future, while helping people save money and access clean energy. Reducing energy pollution will benefit every human, reducing the health hazards of breathing polluted air or drinking contaminated water. The BEST reactor is slated for delivery by November 2027, and it could be the beginning of an energy revolution. However, there are ways to embrace innovative clean energy solutions now. If you want to lower your utility bills and reduce your home's pollution, you can install solar panels. They could bring the cost of home energy down to or near $0. To get started, use EnergySage's free service that makes it easy to compare quotes from vetted local installers and save up to $10,000 on solar installations. The environmental benefits of fusion combined with the financial savings and high energy output mean China's BEST reactor could change how we think about and use energy. It's an important leap forward in nuclear fusion technology and a step toward a healthier Earth. Should we be harnessing the ocean to power our homes? Absolutely Leave it be It depends I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Sustainability Times
2 days ago
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'Humans Can Finally See in the Dark': This Stunning Scientific Breakthrough Just Changed the Future of Night Vision Forever
IN A NUTSHELL 🌙 Chinese researchers have developed innovative contact lenses that allow humans to see in the dark by converting infrared light into visible light. have developed innovative contact lenses that allow humans to see in the dark by converting infrared light into visible light. 🧪 These lenses incorporate nanoparticles and are made from biocompatible polymers , requiring no external power source. and are made from , requiring no external power source. 🔬 Tests on mice and humans show the lenses can detect infrared signals and even improve vision when eyes are closed. and even improve vision when eyes are closed. 🌟 Potential applications include surgery, encryption, counterfeit detection, and aiding individuals with color blindness. Have you ever imagined seeing in the dark without the aid of a flashlight or night vision goggles? This long-standing human fantasy might soon become a reality, thanks to a groundbreaking invention by Chinese researchers. Scientists from Hefei University of Science and Technology have developed contact lenses that enable night vision by converting infrared light into visible light. Although these lenses are not yet available for public use, the potential applications are vast and transformative. In this article, we explore the science behind this innovation, its potential applications, and the current limitations that need to be overcome. The Science Behind Seeing in the Dark The ability to see in the dark has long been the province of certain animals and fictional characters. For humans, it is typically an impossible feat without specialized equipment like infrared goggles. The human eye can only detect light within a narrow spectrum of approximately 400 to 700 nanometers, known as visible light. Infrared light, on the other hand, falls between 800 and 1,600 nanometers, making it invisible to the naked eye. To bridge this gap, Hefei University researchers have developed contact lenses incorporating nanoparticles capable of absorbing near-infrared light and converting it into visible light. These lenses are crafted from soft, biocompatible polymers, similar to commercial contact lenses, and they do not require any external energy source. This innovation allows the wearer to see in the dark seamlessly, transforming the invisible into the visible. 'Earth Is Not Unique Anymore': Harvard Scientists Reveal Countless Earth-Like Planets Lurking in Distant Galaxies A Promising Yet Imperfect Technology Testing of these innovative lenses has been conducted on both mice and humans. In mice, the pupils contracted in response to infrared light, and brain activity was noted in visual processing areas. Human participants wearing the lenses could detect blinking infrared signals and discern the direction of incoming infrared light. Interestingly, infrared vision improved when participants closed their eyes, as infrared light penetrates eyelids more effectively than visible light. Despite these promising results, the technology remains imperfect. Currently, the prototypes excel at detecting intense infrared light but struggle with detailed vision. This limitation arises from the proximity of the lens to the retina, which also explains why traditional infrared goggles currently provide superior results. 'Einstein Was Right All Along': This Atomic Clock on the ISS Is Putting General Relativity to Its Ultimate Test Potential Applications Across Various Fields Researchers are actively working to enhance their technology, particularly in improving the sensitivity of the nanoparticles. These lenses could benefit diverse fields such as surgical interventions, encryption and cryptography, and even counterfeit detection. They hold promise for assisting individuals with color blindness by converting certain infrared wavelengths into visible colors, potentially improving color perception. The possibilities are indeed exciting. Imagine surgeons performing intricate procedures in low-light environments or security personnel detecting hidden threats in the dark. The technology could also revolutionize the way we perceive the world, offering a new dimension to visual experiences. 'A Tower of Death Rose From the Sea': This 43-Foot Wave in 2020 Shattered Physics and Terrorized the Scientific World Challenges and the Road Ahead While the potential of these lenses is vast, significant challenges remain. The current prototypes need further refinement to enhance detail detection and reduce blurriness. Researchers aim to improve the nanoparticle sensitivity to expand the range of detectable infrared light and facilitate clearer vision. Despite these hurdles, the progress made so far is encouraging. Continued research and development could soon lead to a commercially viable product that may change how we interact with our surroundings. As the world waits for these lenses to become available, the question remains: What other transformative innovations could be on the horizon in the realm of human vision? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (24)
South China Morning Post
5 days ago
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
Did China's Tiandu-1 satellite beat US competitors with critical Earth-moon orbit?
China's Tiandu-1 satellite has entered a critical fuel-efficient orbit that synchronises with the motion of the Earth and moon, but claims that it is the first spacecraft to achieve the feat have been challenged by US and Canadian experts. The 3:1 resonant orbit – in which Tiandu-1 completes three loops of the Earth for every circuit made by the moon – is seen as a breakthrough for lunar infrastructure, including a BeiDou-like guidance system that will be needed for interplanetary exploration. Developer Deep Space Exploration Laboratory said that 'the Tiandu-1 navigation test satellite successfully carried out a key manoeuvre at perigee [the point in orbit when it is closest to Earth] on May 22 and precisely transitioned into a 3:1 Earth-moon resonant orbit'. A Deep Space Exploration Laboratory schematic of the Tiandu-1 satellite taking part in a laser ranging experiment in April, before it was moved into the 3:1 resonance orbit. Credit: DSEL 'This made Tiandu-1 the first spacecraft to enter a round-trip 3:1 Earth-moon resonant trajectory,' according to a statement on the website of the laboratory based in Hefei, Anhui province in central China. 'Its flight data will provide support for advancing technologies such as orbit maintenance, control, and autonomous navigation in complex gravitational environments.' Experts in the US and Canada immediately challenged the claim, pointing to Nasa's 15-year-old Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) probe that entered a near-identical orbit in 2011, where it continues to operate. Jonathan McDowell, a Harvard astronomer and space historian, and Canada-based amateur stargazer Scott Tilley both said it was debatable whether Tiandu-1 could lay claim to the title, with the IBEX craft's achievement of near 3:1 resonance. 'Yes, indeed Tiandu-1 has entered a 3:1 resonance orbit. Whether it's the first is debatable…IBEX launched in 2008 uses a similar orbit,' Tilley said.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EHang Holdings Ltd (EH) Q1 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Navigating Challenges and Seizing ...
Revenue: RMB26.1 million in Q1 2025. Gross Profit: RMB16.3 million in Q1 2025. Gross Margin: 62.4% in Q1 2025. Total Operating Expenses: RMB110 million in Q1 2025. Adjusted Operating Expenses: RMB63.6 million in Q1 2025. Adjusted Net Loss: RMB31.1 million in Q1 2025. Cash, Restricted Deposits, and Short-term Investments: RMB1.11 billion as of March 31, 2025. Annual Revenue Guidance: RMB900 million for 2025. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Signs with EH. Release Date: May 26, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) achieved a major regulatory milestone with the issuance of air operator certificates for human-carrying pilotless aerial vehicles, marking the start of commercial operations in China's low-altitude economy. The company completed the final assembly of its next-generation VT35 model, which features significant upgrades and is undergoing full-scale flight testing, with type certification application accepted by the CAAC. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) is expanding its production capacity, with the Yunfu facility doubling in size and additional assembly facilities being built in Hefei and Weihai to support future demand. The company has a strong focus on R&D, holding over 700 issued and pending patents, and is collaborating with academic institutions to drive innovation in autonomous aerial vehicle technologies. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) is actively expanding its international presence, with successful flight demonstrations in Spain and Mexico, and plans to launch commercial operations in Thailand. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) experienced a decline in Q1 2025 revenues compared to the previous year and quarter, primarily due to decreased sales volume of EH216 series products. The company faced a seasonal slowdown in deliveries during Q1, impacted by winter months and the Chinese New Year holiday, as well as delays in customer orders pending OC certification. Operating expenses in Q1 were high, although there was a quarter-on-quarter decrease, reflecting the company's ongoing expansion and recruitment efforts. The adjusted net loss for Q1 was RMB31.1 million, driven by a decline in deliveries, although the company expects financial performance to improve in subsequent quarters. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) faces competition from peers with different aircraft designs, and some competitors have applied for type certification ahead of the VT35, potentially impacting market positioning. Q: Could you provide an outlook on when we might see significant growth in sales and deliveries, given the unchanged revenue guidance of RMB900 million for 2025? A: Q1 performance declined due to seasonal factors and customers delaying orders until after OC certification. However, post-certification, internal data shows improvements in Q2 delivery volumes and sales. Large orders from various provinces will begin converting into contracts and deliveries starting from Q2. Thus, we maintain our full-year revenue guidance of RMB900 million. Q: How long does it take for EH216 owners to get the operating certificate, and how many more operators might get approval for commercial operations this year? A: The OC issuance clarifies regulatory standards, reducing application timelines for future operators. Many of our customers are currently in the application process, and we expect more operators to receive approval this year, translating into more deliveries and scaled operations. Q: How does EHang plan to stay competitive against peers with different designs and earlier type certification applications? A: Urban air mobility and intra-city air transport serve different markets. Our 216S multi-copter configuration is compact, enabling larger scale deployment in urban environments. It is cost-effective, selling for significantly less than competitors' aircraft. Our autonomous flight approach eliminates pilot costs, and we are continuously developing technology and products to maintain competitiveness. Q: When are we expecting formal commercial operations to commence in Guangzhou and Hefei? A: Both operators in Guangzhou and Hefei are conducting trial operations following OC certification. Safety remains paramount, and we are implementing a phased operational approach. Once sufficient operational experience is accumulated, operators will open public sales. Q: What is the progress on the VT35 airworthiness certification and international market expansion? A: The VT35 assembly is complete, and it is undergoing comprehensive flight testing. The CAAC has accepted our type certificate application, and we expect an accelerated certification process. Internationally, we have conducted successful flight demos in Spain and Mexico, and plan to launch commercial operations in Thailand soon. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EHang Holdings Ltd (EH) Q1 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Navigating Challenges and Seizing ...
Revenue: RMB26.1 million in Q1 2025. Gross Profit: RMB16.3 million in Q1 2025. Gross Margin: 62.4% in Q1 2025. Total Operating Expenses: RMB110 million in Q1 2025. Adjusted Operating Expenses: RMB63.6 million in Q1 2025. Adjusted Net Loss: RMB31.1 million in Q1 2025. Cash, Restricted Deposits, and Short-term Investments: RMB1.11 billion as of March 31, 2025. Annual Revenue Guidance: RMB900 million for 2025. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Signs with EH. Release Date: May 26, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) achieved a major regulatory milestone with the issuance of air operator certificates for human-carrying pilotless aerial vehicles, marking the start of commercial operations in China's low-altitude economy. The company completed the final assembly of its next-generation VT35 model, which features significant upgrades and is undergoing full-scale flight testing, with type certification application accepted by the CAAC. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) is expanding its production capacity, with the Yunfu facility doubling in size and additional assembly facilities being built in Hefei and Weihai to support future demand. The company has a strong focus on R&D, holding over 700 issued and pending patents, and is collaborating with academic institutions to drive innovation in autonomous aerial vehicle technologies. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) is actively expanding its international presence, with successful flight demonstrations in Spain and Mexico, and plans to launch commercial operations in Thailand. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) experienced a decline in Q1 2025 revenues compared to the previous year and quarter, primarily due to decreased sales volume of EH216 series products. The company faced a seasonal slowdown in deliveries during Q1, impacted by winter months and the Chinese New Year holiday, as well as delays in customer orders pending OC certification. Operating expenses in Q1 were high, although there was a quarter-on-quarter decrease, reflecting the company's ongoing expansion and recruitment efforts. The adjusted net loss for Q1 was RMB31.1 million, driven by a decline in deliveries, although the company expects financial performance to improve in subsequent quarters. EHang Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ:EH) faces competition from peers with different aircraft designs, and some competitors have applied for type certification ahead of the VT35, potentially impacting market positioning. Q: Could you provide an outlook on when we might see significant growth in sales and deliveries, given the unchanged revenue guidance of RMB900 million for 2025? A: Q1 performance declined due to seasonal factors and customers delaying orders until after OC certification. However, post-certification, internal data shows improvements in Q2 delivery volumes and sales. Large orders from various provinces will begin converting into contracts and deliveries starting from Q2. Thus, we maintain our full-year revenue guidance of RMB900 million. Q: How long does it take for EH216 owners to get the operating certificate, and how many more operators might get approval for commercial operations this year? A: The OC issuance clarifies regulatory standards, reducing application timelines for future operators. Many of our customers are currently in the application process, and we expect more operators to receive approval this year, translating into more deliveries and scaled operations. Q: How does EHang plan to stay competitive against peers with different designs and earlier type certification applications? A: Urban air mobility and intra-city air transport serve different markets. Our 216S multi-copter configuration is compact, enabling larger scale deployment in urban environments. It is cost-effective, selling for significantly less than competitors' aircraft. Our autonomous flight approach eliminates pilot costs, and we are continuously developing technology and products to maintain competitiveness. Q: When are we expecting formal commercial operations to commence in Guangzhou and Hefei? A: Both operators in Guangzhou and Hefei are conducting trial operations following OC certification. Safety remains paramount, and we are implementing a phased operational approach. Once sufficient operational experience is accumulated, operators will open public sales. Q: What is the progress on the VT35 airworthiness certification and international market expansion? A: The VT35 assembly is complete, and it is undergoing comprehensive flight testing. The CAAC has accepted our type certificate application, and we expect an accelerated certification process. Internationally, we have conducted successful flight demos in Spain and Mexico, and plan to launch commercial operations in Thailand soon. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Sign in to access your portfolio
